Build your Financial Mission

Part one, making a plan. The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.Proverbs sixteen, verse nine. A clear financial plan accounts for where you are and where you want to be. Like turn by turn directions, it gives you everything you need, but only focuses on the next step at hand.

That's exactly what the first part of the steward framework is about. You will set a direction that identifies your mission. This becomes a lens for every future decision. The result will be a clear plan that removes guesswork and tells you what your next move is. Let's start with step one, set direction. Do you have a clear direction for your life and finances?

Without a plan, it's easy to drift and lose your way. That's why the steward framework begins with this step, set direction. In this step, you create a vision for your future and define clear goals. Establish your mission.

When setting direction, the first step is to identify your ideal future. To do this, you need to think at a high level about your life. Some of the questions may not seem directly related to finances. They may touch on your family life or the future you want to avoid.

The point is to uncover the direction you want to head. Two key questions will guide you. Where do you want to be?What future do you want to avoid? If you are married, answer the questions separately first. This allows honesty without pressure. Then compare notes. Listen carefully before reacting. Communicate openly and combine your responses into a shared vision. Now, let's pause for some simple questions.

What work brings you joy?Where do you want to live?What values do you strive to uphold?If you could change one habit, what would it be and why?Think about how you spend your leisure time. Many people waste hours on unproductive activities like television. What meaningful activities do you enjoy? How would you plan your free time to be both productive and enjoyable?