February Spotlight: Northwestern Mutual Financial Advisors
We frequently emphasize and share a crucial topic with our team around strategies for our agent partners to secure their financial future. A key focus is on wealth building and financial education. We're thrilled to introduce Andy Sorrells and Sam Pittard, financial advisors from Northwestern Mutual, whose insights and guidance we're eager to share with our ERG TRIBE. Explore their valuable advice and expertise below.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself!
Both Sam and Andy are graduates of UGA and live in the Athens area. Sam grew up in Athens and has stayed local while Andy grew up in Gwinnett county before attending UGA and now lives in Oconee County. Both Sam and Andy are passionate UGA sports fans as well as avid golfers. Sam is married to Sarah and they have 2 sons. Andy is married to Ashley and have a daughter with another on the way.
Q: Tell us about your business / services
We are a holistic financial planning firm. Our services include fee based financial planning, wealth management/investments, and insurance.
Our team holds the following designations
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
Chartered Financial Consultant
Chartered Life Underwriter
Sam and Andy operate as the financial advisors on the team and we have three support roles that are occupied by Ansleigh Garrett, Allison Isaacs and Wendi Pruett.
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
We wanted to own our own business and utilize our strengths and talents to help others achieve their goals. We also wanted the autonomy to build our practice the way we wanted to. This career allows the flexibility to serve our clients well and to have access to the best companies to be able to achieve this.
2024 is upon us, and many of us have set resolutions related to achieving specific financial goals for this year. Here are some questions designed to assist them in maintaining their focus and successfully attaining their goals!
Q: How can financial advisors help you achieve your financial goals and ultimately financial freedom?
Financial advisors can help clients by making sure you are not on your own when dealing with your financial planning. We would recommend people seek out advisors that have designations in the areas that they need or want help. It is crucial to make sure your advisor understand what you want-when you want it and what steps you are taking to currently get there. This will allow the advisor to identify any gaps that the client may not be aware of.
Q: What’s your best advice for maintaining financial discipline and motivation throughout 2024?
It is crucial to have a written-out plan or roadmap that is in direct alignment with the things that you want most when you want them. A written plan tells you what to do on a monthly/annual basis to achieve those goals. Having a plan makes it much easier to follow and helps instill discipline to achieve these goals. If you are not connected to plan, it is easy to let yourself off the hook and break the solid habits that may have been created. Also, have an advisor that you meet with regularly to update the plan and make sure it is working the way you want it to.
Q: What are a few common financial pitfalls/risks, that individuals should watch out for?
Individuals should watch out for things in the financial world that seem trendy. One common mistake that people make is trying to time the stock market instead of being consistent and following a proven plan. In the scope of a long-term plan, individuals should also avoid reacting emotionally to market volatility.
Q: How can individuals empower themselves financially in 2024?
Start by writing down your objectives- what do you really want? What are you saving for- next 3 years, next 10 years, next 30 years? What do you want life to look like for you? Find an advisor that you trust and what practical action you need to take to make these things happen. Don’t let another year go by and not make time to commit to action.
Our favorite last question we ask all our local business owners and professionals:
Q: What’s good in your life?
We have a strong team, and our office is growing. Our families are happy and healthy, and we are looking forward to another great year. Life is good!
Thank you for sharing your business with us, Andy & Sam! We enjoyed learning more about your business & actionable steps to take control of your financial future.
Be sure to visit their website, Athens, GA Financial | Northwestern Mutual to learn more.
If you're a local business owner or know a local business or service deserving recognition, please email us the details!