Does the title of this month’s article sound odd? Well, one of the things that I have become a strong proponent of is parents need to treat themselves. I work hard to help my clients effectively put money away for their retirement years and my firm 1st Capital does a good job in that space.
But one of the things that I see lots of people do, is not plan something great for themselves now, so they don’t feel cheated later. In thinking about having a fun and enjoyable lifestyle there is lots of credence to “delayed gratification”. Don’t get me wrong here, your kids come first, but my point really focuses on the fact that you as parents have done a great job managing your kids summer activities, vacations, and sleep away camp affairs for the past 90 days and many of you probably took a big sigh of relief (smile) after your kids started back to their normal school routine.
Yes, we know they are probably involved with many school events from sports to band to debate to dance to poms and on to prepping for ACT and SAT exams, but parents need to treat themselves and now is a great time of year to plan for that treat. Let me give you some ideas that work for me and my family that might work for you too!
For those of us here in Chicago and the greater Midwest, the weather is still fantastic and it’s still summer. When was the last time you took a boat ride on Lake Michigan or did the Architectural Tour of the City of Chicago? You could also book a two-hour Segway Fireworks Tour, go see Blue Man Group… again (I know, corny but fun) take in a play or a find a concert at one of our great venues. If you take a look at the region it gets even better. I love hiking so make the quick trip down to Starved Rock and discover that Illinois is not “totally flat” after all. Or head in a different direction to Southwestern Michigan and spend some time watching two comedy greats, Steve Martin and Martin Short
at the Four Winds Casino in New Buffalo, Michigan. If you want to head north, Milwaukee’s Art Museum is a fan favorite and there is nothing like a stop at the old world “Mader’s German Restaurant”. But if you rather to stay in the Chicago, the suburbs or any other city in the world, maybe a lifestyle dinner is all you need.
I’m not tour guide, but I’m simply suggesting to make a plan. As parents you need to treat yourselves to something away from the kids, away from family and just hang with your spouse or your “ride or die” partner. Don’t wait until the holidays…do it now, your lifestyle will thank you for it.
For more information on Richard Chew & 1st Capital Insurance & Retirement Group, contact 312-243-3907/Office, 312-952-8040/Cell, [email protected] * website, www.1stcig.com.