New Year, New Goals: Aspiring for holistic success in 2025 and beyond

By Chris Cruz, CLU®, CFP®, Financial Advisor

Northwestern Mutual, Addison, TX

As 2024 winds down, many of us will reassess our lives for the year ahead. Achieving prosperity in the upcoming year is about preparing for the events and decisions that can significantly impact your family, finances, and career trajectory. The new year brings a prime opportunity take a deeper look at your priorities—a crucial period of reflection for aligning your financial strategies with life changes and goals. Whether it’s tax or estate planning, making more time for family, or considering a job change, being proactive can help you become an even better, thriving version of yourself in 2025 and beyond.

Financial Reevaluation

While it’s great to start the new year with financial goals, it’s imperative to assess your existing financial situation before setting those goals. Take a close look at your income sources, expenses, and savings strategies. Assessments could also mean a review of charitable contributions, setting aside important tax documents and consider available tax benefits, or examining whether your assets are positioned for a smooth transition to the next generation. By implementing a thoughtful approach now, you can better position yourself to potentially reduce stress and supporting long-term financial stability.

Consider meeting with a financial advisor to discuss your long-term goals. Northwestern Mutual’s Planning and Progress Study shows Americans are much more confident and retire earlier with a financial advisor than without one. But realize it's not just about numbers—it’s about aligning your financial choices with your values and life goals. Whether you’re looking to buy a home, save for retirement, or pay your child’s tuition, a proactive plan tailored to your unique financial situation will set the tone for the upcoming year.

Family Priorities

The daily grind of life can lead us to neglect checking in with our loved ones as often as we should. This time of reflection should include those relationships, and how you can strengthen them in the coming year. Whether it’s scheduling regular family gatherings or even simple one-on-one time with those who matter most, do not underestimate the value of investing time with the people you care about most.

For example, a great way of making that investment is talking about financial goals and including your children in family conversations about money. Open discussions on finances with your loved ones is a way to help bring the entire family closer together. The financial education your children get will last longer than any formal schooling as you set a solid foundation of building wealth and prosperity.

Career Growth and Development

I was blessed to realize early in my life that I wanted to enjoy an entrepreneurial career where I could make a positive impact in my community and with people I work with. Being a financial advisor has given me that opportunity and so much more, including unlimited earning potential, the freedom of having my own business, and the flexibility to enjoy my life outside of work. However, it’s not lost on me that many people are still searching for the career that fulfills them personally, professionally, and financially.

If you’re not satisfied with your current career trajectory, take time to outline your professional goals. Think of the skills you have to learn to achieve those goals. Look for mentors or networking opportunities within your industry—perhaps outside of it if you’re looking to make a significant career change. Remember, your career is a major part of your life, and investing in it can yield strong returns in every aspect of it.

As we look to the new year, be sure to take time to reassess and realign your priorities. By doing so, you’ll have an updated and customized blueprint for your life that leads to success. This perspective can bring about resilience, self-care, meaningful relationships, and even greater wealth financially and holistically. Now is the time to align your actions with your values—with the goal being a more joyful and harmonious life.

Here's to a fulfilling and prosperous 2025—and beyond!

About the advisor:

Chris Cruz, CLU®, CFP®, is a Wealth Management Advisor and serves as the Managing Director of Northwestern Mutual’s Addison, Allen, and Waco offices. With more than a dozen years of experience, he leads a team of approximately 75 advisors and staff. Chris specializes in serving his clients through holistic financial planning.