What does financial success really look like?

What does it really mean to achieve financial success? According to a recent Investopedia feature, many Americans set extremely high benchmarks—thinking a $270,000 salary or over $5 million in net worth defines “making it.” But as I noted in the article, true contentment isn’t just about hitting big numbers: “There’s a certain point where having enough is enough. And it’s not so much that you’re happy, but you’re satisfied.” The gap between wealth and happiness is real; money is best viewed as the tool (not the destination) for crafting a life you control—on your own terms.

I always encourage clients to start with the basics: sit down, get clear on your goals, and write out a financial plan—a process that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about dollars and cents. As I shared, “If you’re feeling lost…that planning process is a great place to start.” It’s not just about chasing a number, but about building daily habits, checking in regularly, and weighing big decisions against your roadmap. In our practice, the greatest financial wins come not from luck or high incomes, but from honest planning, regular reviews, and the willingness to adjust your expectations. If you’re unsure what financial success looks like for you, I’m here to help you clarify your glidepath and set a plan you’ll actually stick with—satisfaction, not just spreadsheets, is the end goal.