Most Americans are lured into saving for retirement with traditional qualified retirement plans, such as IRA’s and 401(k)s. They are convinced by financial advisors to contribute pre-tax dollars to 401(k) plans or place tax-deductible contributions into IRAs because of the tax advantages during the contribution and accumulation phases of their retirement planning. They seem to ignore the two most important phases – when withdraw your money for retirement income, and when you pass away and transfer any remaining funds to your heirs.

From the desk of Paul Nichols: President of Financial Abundance Inc.

When it comes to making investment decisions, many consumers know they are ill prepared to do it themselves. That's why you're smart to turn to a financial advisor for help. A talented, dedicated advisor can help you develop a portfolio that's suitable and appropriate for your situation, one that's designed to meet your goals and can generate higher returns at lower risks-- and with less work-- than you are likely to obtain on your own.

From the desk of Paul Nichols: President of Financial Abundance Inc.

C. Northcote Parkinson is probably most recognized for his book entitled Parkinson’s Law. It states that “work expands to meet the time envelope allowed.” Give it a shot- give someone a task with a deadline of 2 days, and it will be done near the end of the 2nd day. Give the same task to another person and give them a week to complete it. You can bet that the task won’t be completed until the waning hours of the 7th day.

From the desk of Paul Nichols: President of Financial Abundance Inc.

Socking money away into IRAs and 401(k)s and paying extra principal on your mortgage is counter-productive

In the quest for financial independence, there are two places most Americans accumulate the most money: our home and our retirement plan.

Following accepted wisdom, we set aside money in qualified retirement accounts such as IRAs and 401(k)s, enjoying tax deductible funding and/or tax deferred accumulation. At the same time, we assume it’s best to achieve the goal of outright home ownership and save money no mortgage interest expense by sending extra principal payments against our mortgages.

From the desk of Paul Nichols: President of Financial Abundance Inc.

I originally heard the question why not you, why not now in 1992 at a business function. The billionaire Richard DeVos was speaking, where afterwards I had an opportunity to sit down and spend some time with him.