Most valuable model

Jackson Hole Dec 2024

The most valuable model I ever built had nothing to do with Excel.

On Wall Street, I loved modeling.

Not walking the runway—financial modeling 

(plus I'm way too short to model)

Projecting cash flows. Stress-testing assumptions. Seeing a company's potential future.

Now as a CFP, I do the same thing for people.

Can they retire? Will they be okay? The model tells the story.

But this spring break, I discovered a deeper kind of modeling.

Henry went skiing in Jackson Hole with my dad and brother. 

(I was not there - photo from a few years ago)

Both were great skiers—but now they're older. Bad knees. Sore shoulders.

Henry hated skiing with them.

Then Henry ran into a girl from his school on the plane.

They skied together for two days straight.

She led him down blacks. Double blacks.

Runs I never would have let him do.

Dad, if you're reading this—yes, Henry skied Tower Three (a double black). Surprise!!

But here's what I realized:

Henry got better because he followed someone more experienced who pushed him.

Not someone holding him back. Someone pulling him forward.

My girls have done the same thing—without even knowing it.

They've modeled themselves after girls 3-4 years ahead of them.

It makes the path less scary. Less risky. More possible.

This is the kind of modeling Wall Street never taught me:

If you want to grow, find someone ahead of you.

Watch how they move. Follow their line.

Let them take you places you wouldn't go alone.

Financial models project the future.

But the right role model? They help you build it.

Who's someone you've modeled yourself after—and how did it change your path?

If you need some financial modeling, reach out!

Tiffany Kent

Your Friendly Wealth Engagement Guide

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This commentary offers generalized research, not personalized investment advice. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a complete description of our investment services or performance. Nothing in this commentary should be interpreted to state or imply that past results are an indication of future investment returns. All investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to consult with an investment & tax professional before implementing any investment strategy. Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.