Click here to link to this week’s Richmond News column where we discuss simple but effective ways to free up cash flow toward building your wealth.

Click here for this week’s Richmond News article on taking advantage of the long term benefits of Tax Free Savings Accounts.

Click here for our latest Richmond News column posted January 6 regarding the need to be careful about past returns when investing for the long term.

As published in my column in The Richmond News.

Christmas has little to do with the gifts we receive.

I hope my wife will forgive me for that statement, as she’s spent most of her free time these past weeks helping out Jolly Old St. Nick.

This is our annual reminder of how fortunate we are and that “it’s not about the money!” We try in the best way that we can to spend this season of peace in the company of our family and friends, celebrating the season, taking a well-deserved rest, making plans for the New Year and sharing our wealth with others.

What is wealth though? A friend of mine gave the best definition I have ever heard. “Wealth”, he said, “is an abundance of what you treasure most.” Some key examples include family, friendship, health and freedom. Although financial wealth is necessary, it doesn’t usually make it to the top of our list.

Planning for these “big picture” priorities involves beginning with a simple thought: “When your days are done, what needs to have happened for your life to have been well-lived?” Once you’ve established that, it becomes quite simple to work it backwards from there. Christmas often puts us in the best frame of mind to begin that planning process.

If your wealth is your family, are you planning your career or business so that you can fully be a part of their lives or are you locked into a treadmill of working to afford shallow substitutes for your presence? Is it time to make some changes? Think of the adventure that awaits!

What about friendships? How much more enjoyable is this journey when we can travel it in the company of those who share our joys and sorrows? What can we do today to help a friend in need?

If you would like to be happier, are you budgeting time and planning for the experiences that give you joy, whether it be in your relationships, hobbies or passions? Remember that real happiness doesn’t usually come until you give some away.

Without good health, achieving and enjoying our life goals can be a struggle. Not only do we need to adopt healthy lifestyles, we also need to make plans in case an accident or illness strikes.

Is there a heavy price on the freedom that you aspire to, or is there perhaps a less expensive path? Have you rehearsed what life will look like when you stop working for money and have your money start working for you? Is it a plan that will free you or will it cost you sleepless nights?

Christmas began with a child bringing a simple message – “Peace.” Regardless of our many different beliefs, that’s one word that probably embodies the essence of our life goals.

Merry Christmas and all our best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2012.

… Richard & Zinha Vetter and Family

Please check out our latest column in the Richmond News entitled “Lemmings have it right, diversify.” It was inspired by a very random thought & I’d love to hear your feedback.