Ice cream, mojitos, margaritas, daycations, summer movies, concerts, or weekends at Bear Mountain or Miami. Lounging by the pool or cranking up the barbecue. It's summer, baby! You plan to enjoy the summer, right? Of course. Go for it. But keep in mind what lurks behind all that joy, especially in your summer fun on a budget.

What if I go and let summer fun exceed my budget?

Fair question. It's hard to be responsible when scantily clad bodies await in Cali, or you and your spouse can finally see Europe.

The What If Monster's waiting for the vacation cruise, and the bills that add up quickly. Or maybe you've considered the What If Monster and are waffling between spending time in Vegas or staying home.

Fortunately, you don't have to choose between financial wellness and making the most of summer. Keep the What If Monster quiet and enjoy the season with confidence.

Step 1: Give Yourself Permission — But With Parameters

Summer is meant to be enjoyed. Instead of not spending altogether, plan for your summer fun on a budget.

• Create a summer budget: A budget is the first step for any financial goal. Why not do the same for summer fun? Consider what you'd like to do and analyze your finances to see how compatible the goals are with your finances. Be realistic so that you don't compromise financial stability.
• Label it lifestyle spending: Embrace your plans as deserved enjoyment, not extravagance or something unnecessary. When it's intentional, it's not wasteful and is in alignment with values. Just remember, conventional budgeting has limits and categorization. Decide on broader aspirations for the summer and plan how to achieve them.
• Leave room for spontaneity: Like your emergency savings, build a small buffer for the unexpected. Your friends might invite you to a last-minute weekend getaway or day trip. Be ready to manage that instead of flat-out rejecting the possibility or dipping into savings.

Step 2: Be Honest About What Brings You Joy

Are you planning because the experience is meaningful, or because it feels like something you're supposed to do?

• List five to 10 must-dos. Decide what's financially manageable. How many times do you want to spend a night in the town? How long have you waited to visit your best bud in Texas? Focus on experiences like that family trip and avoid extras (multiple weekends in Atlantic City). Determine how to finance your plan.
• Say no to what doesn't align with your goals.
• Be financially savvy about what's feasible. Streamline the list until you have activities that will make memories and be fun.

Step 3: Adjust, Not Abandon, the Plan

If you overspend a little for any given activity or in a specific week or month, don't panic. Falling off the wagon won't ruin your future, but ignoring it might.

• Dial back on the next trip/week/month's expenses. Instead of a weekend in the Poconos, maybe a day picnic or soaking in the sun on the beach could be substituted.
• Avoid dipping into emergency funds unless truly necessary. Do not go into debt. Do not spontaneously fly with the girls to Hawaii. If you use emergency funds, develop a plan to replace what's taken sooner rather than later.
• Consult with your planner about pivoting or rebalancing the financial scales. Consider opening a vacation savings account. Even small amounts saved for summer will sidestep jeopardizing financial goals.

A Plan That Includes Joy Is a Plan That Lasts

Summer sunshine demands attention, and spending is fine. However, a solid financial strategy can weather your summer fun on a budget.

At CrossleyShear, we see your financial plan as part of your lifestyle, not a restriction. A good life is the overall goal. That includes making room for meaningful experiences, memory-making moments, and yes, even summer fun. However, if you worry about how seasonal spending fits into the bigger picture, we're here to help develop a plan that feels good now and later.

Schedule a check-in with CrossleyShear today.

The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitute a recommendation. Any opinions are those of Dale Crossley and Evan Shear  and not necessarily those of Raymond James.

HEATHROW/MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA, June 26, 2025 – CrossleyShear Wealth Management, with its emphasis on comprehensive, client centric financial planning, is pleased to announce that Andrew Hall, Halifax Wealth Management of Raymond James, is merging his practice with the CrossleyShear Wealth Management team. Through this strategic merger, Hall will continue providing the same level of care for his clients, and also give them the option to benefit from CrossleyShear’s bench strength – enhanced planning capabilities and investment solutions.

“This merger is truly a synergistic partnership, stated Evan Shear, Co-Founder and Branch Manager of CrossleyShear Wealth Management, and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Andy has built his practice on client-centric care, transparency, and a commitment to lifelong learning, so there’s complete alignment with our culture and financial planning philosophy.” Dale Crossley, Co-Founder of CrossleyShear Wealth Management, Branch Manager and Financial Planner – RJFS stated, “Andy is a tremendous asset to our team, bringing 30 years of financial planning expertise to CrossleyShear. We welcome the addition of his network of established clients to our practice where they can expect a seamless transition and the same client care they are accustomed to receiving.”

Andrew Hall stated, “For years, our team has delivered boutique, values‑driven advice. As client needs grew more complex, we searched for a partner that could widen our toolkit without diluting our culture. CrossleyShear lives its promise — Together. Wherever life takes you. — through deeper research, broader planning resources and the same client‑first mindset, so joining forces felt like the most natural way to scale our impact.”

To learn more about CrossleyShear Wealth Management and the team’s financial planning and wealth management solutions, visit CrossleyShear.com. For more information about CSsports, visit CSsports.net.

About CrossleyShear Wealth Management | Since 1998, CrossleyShear Wealth Management has served as a premier financial planning team dedicated to helping provide clients and families with innovative financial solutions and wealth management strategies. With offices in Heathrow and Merritt Island, Florida, the company’s tailored customer care philosophy and customized planning process helps empower its clients to achieve their financial goals and financial independence. Their professional athlete division, CSsports, is exclusively dedicated to serving the unique needs of sports professionals before, during, and after their playing careers. Visit CrossleyShear.com and CSsports.net to learn more.

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CrossleyShear Wealth Management and CSsports are not registered broker dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Let's say you've done everything by the book, financially speaking. You don't overspend, put aside money for retirement, come up with a budget before making any big purchases, and have savings set aside for a rainy day. But despite your best efforts, you may sometimes sense the "What If Monster" rearing up, asking questions like, "What if I get sick and can't afford my medical bills?" or "What if I get laid off?" The fact is that everyone's life situation keeps changing. People get married and divorced. Kids go off to college and start living their own lives. People get sick and require home health care.

All these events can be emotionally and economically draining. And at times, they might require you to develop a new strategy that suits your needs. In such situations, conducting a thorough financial plan review is essential.

Signs That Your Financial Plan Is Outdated

You will usually know that your money management plan is outdated because your "What If Monster" will rear up. The "What If Monster" is your friend; it's just there to highlight when a financial refresh is needed. Here are some indications that your personal financial roadmap is no longer current:

• Your income has increased, but you seem to be spending more rather than saving more.
• Using your savings for everyday expenses.
• You're not sure where you're spending your money.
• There are changes in your life situation, and you no longer want what you wanted five or ten years ago.
• You simply haven't looked at your cash flow plan for over five years.
• The strategy you're using for monetary allocation is not helping you reach your goals. This could be because you copied someone else's investment strategy, but they have different goals.

Why Are Regular Financial Reviews Important?

You might contact your investment manager when you feel your wealth management plan is outdated. However, doing so is fine even if you have no money problems.

If you have certain future plans, such as buying a home, having a child, or starting a business, speaking to your advisor first makes sense. This way, you can determine if this is a good time to implement those plans. If not, you can also get some advice about what changes you must make before moving towards your life goals.

In short, a financial plan review is beneficial not only if you're having problems but also if you want to ensure that your economic situation will support the life changes you have in mind.

What Does a Financial Plan Review Include?

So maybe you're ready to quell the "what if monster" by speaking to your wealth manager and adjusting your money management plan to suit your current life goals. Here are certain things that your financial plan review may cover:

• Income: Go over any changes in income, such as if you've changed jobs, received a promotion, been laid off, etc.
• Assets/Investments: Evaluating your assets and investments. Are your investments performing as well as expected? Are your assets increasing or decreasing in value?
• Debt: Discuss whether you are in debt and come up with a debt repayment strategy.
• Goals: Your financial consultant will also ask about your future goals and whether you plan to make any life changes. If so, they will help you adjust your cash flow plan to meet those goals.
• Insurance: A financial strategy also involves an overview of insurance coverage to ensure all your policies meet your needs.
• Retirement Planning: Considering pension plans and how much you are contributing towards them is also included in the examination.
• Estate Planning: Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney are all included in the assessment.

Take Control of Your Future Today!

Keep in mind that a personal financial roadmap is not a static thing. It's something that needs to grow and develop along with growth and development in your life. As your life situation changes, so should your investment philosophy.

Whether the changes come from the outside, in terms of market fluctuations, or from the inside, in terms of changes in your life goals, going over your investment strategy can help. Contact us at CrossleyShear for a financial plan review that focuses on making the best of your finances and your life.

Receiving an unexpected bequest of wealth can bring up a whirlwind of emotions like gratitude, grief, and even anxiety. When it's incidental, you won't have a prepared strategy, let alone an inheritance management plan for what to do with it. Even if you know it's coming, having a plan ready for when it arrives can be challenging.

This confusion can cause the “What If Monster” to start stirring thoughts in your brain. "What if I inherit money and don't know what to do?" You might be concerned you'll make the wrong decision and waste a once-in-a-lifetime gift if you don't feel prepared to take on a large sum of money.

You can rest easy knowing that you don't need to have all the answers right now. All it takes is a thoughtful plan and some expert guidance, and you can make the most of your inheritance.

Breathe Before Acting

If an estate is thrust upon you, you might feel like you need to make a quick decision. Unless you are in financial distress that the legacy could fix, the best thing to do is to wait and focus on inheritance management. Take some time to let your emotions settle, understand what the legacy includes and whether any regulations or conditions apply, and determine any legal requirements or tax implications. Allowing yourself to breathe helps you decide with clarity.

Understanding Your Inheritance

How you spend your bequest depends on the type of assets that are included. You might have been given cash, retirement accounts, real estate, or business interests.

While cash is potentially the easiest to spend, it still requires setting a strategy for inheritance management. If you receive retirement accounts, you need to consider tax and distribution rules. Finally, real estate/business interests require decisions about managing, selling, or transferring ownership. Once you know your type of endowment, you can make the best strategy for it.

Learning to Avoid Common Emotional Traps

When you receive an estate, you might be overwhelmed by pressure, guilt, or a sense of responsibility to do "something big." It can be too easy to allow yourself to fall into emotional decision-making, like giving away a bunch of money without thought or rushing into investments.

You need to take time to decide how you want to spend the money. After all, it was left to you. Process the loss that led to receiving an estate, and remember that it was meant to benefit you, not burden you.

Coming Up With a Plan to Honor Your Goals and Theirs

While the money is ultimately yours to spend, if you want the spending to honor the person who left it to you, that's a valid option. Working with a financial advisor will allow you to create a strategy that helps with your current needs and long-term goals and honors the person who left it to you if that's what you desire.

Your plan might include things like paying off debt, investing, saving for retirement, giving to worthy causes, or helping your family's future, among other things. Remember, while there is no "right" way to use your inheritance, there are thoughtful ways.

Quieting the “What If Monster”

If you've recently inherited money or know you will be soon and aren't sure what your next steps are, take solace in knowing you are not alone. The best thing you can do is ask for guidance. At CrossleyShear, we can help you navigate inheritance management with compassion, clarity, and strategy.

Remember, you don't get financial confidence by having all the answers. It comes when you know who to turn to when you have questions.

Let's start the conversation. Get in touch with us today.

Every investor's situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitute a recommendation. Any opinions are those of Dale Crossley and Evan Shear and not necessarily those of Raymond James.

Launching a financial future

Share these fundamental concepts with young emerging investors.

We celebrate our lives in milestones. Ages and stages. Once we hit that thrilling number 18 signifying that we’re officially adults, the amount of freedom we feel becomes commensurate with the responsibilities that our lives begin to take on – with financial literacy underlying many of those obligations.

Navigating the world of investing can feel daunting, but understanding key concepts and learning from essential lessons can guide the journey. Whether you have a family member turning 18, or someone in your life looking to build wealth from the bottom up, this primer provides a solid overview of the basic types of securities, investing strategies, and valuable lessons to help pave the path toward financial confidence.

Understanding your options

Before launching into the world of investments, emerging investors need to know and understand what tools are at their disposal. Securities are essentially tradable assets that hold monetary value. Each type serves a distinct purpose and carries risks, rewards and trading costs.

• Stocks: Representing ownership in a company, stocks grant investors voting rights and potential dividends (a share of the company's profits). These can be volatile, offering high returns but also carrying the risk of capital loss.
• Bonds: Essentially loans made to companies or governments, bonds offer a fixed interest rate over a set period. While generally less volatile than stocks, they offer lower potential returns and are susceptible to interest rate fluctuations.
• Mutual Funds: These pool investors' money to purchase a diversified portfolio of assets (stocks, bonds, etc.). They offer lower risk and greater liquidity but come with management fees.
• Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): Similar to mutual funds, ETFs passively track a market index or sector, offering instant diversification and lower fees. They trade like stocks throughout the day, providing greater flexibility.

Finding your investment strategy

Once new investors understand the tools, it's time to provide clarity on how different investment strategies align with varying risk tolerances and goals. A vital point to make: your investment strategy can change as your needs and goals change.

Some investors focus on value investing, which seeks undervalued stocks with strong fundamentals (core elements of the company itself that make the stock attractive). To succeed with this strategy, it’s important to be patient and interested in researching companies to find those hidden gems with potential for growth.

Another strategy focused on company fundamentals is growth investing. Instead of considering what the company looks like today, this style is mostly concerned with high growth potential. By prioritizing future earnings over current profitability, it carries higher risk but offers the chance for significant returns.

For those investors looking for less growth potential, but a steadier income and capital appreciation over time, dividend investing is a strategy to gravitate toward. It can provide regular income through investing in stocks that pay consistent dividends. It is important to note that dividends are not guaranteed and must be authorized by the company’s board of directors.

Looking at the bigger picture, asset allocation zooms out beyond stocks and invites investors to diversify across different asset classes (think stocks, bonds, etc.). This approach helps mitigate risk and balances volatility while on the road to long-term growth.

Embracing tried-and-true lessons

Investing for beginners can feel daunting, but helping to understand key concepts like risk and return, diversification, and the power of time can set investors on the right path.

You’ve heard these sayings, and now it’s time to pass them on. Stress the importance of not putting all their eggs in one basket – it helps to spread investments across different assets and sectors to manage risk. The earlier aspiring investors start and the longer they invest, the more their money grows thanks to compound interest. It’s also prudent to help them become mindful of fees, do their research, and seek professional guidance when needed.

Remind them that investing is a marathon, not a sprint. Once they embark on their investing journey, they should strive to stay informed and adapt their approach as they work to build a secure financial future.

By sharing the learnings of experienced investors, you can help new investors avoid common pitfalls and succeed in building wealth from the bottom up. Here are some key lessons to impart:

• The power of compounding: When you start early, your money grows over time. Even small contributions invested consistently can snowball into significant sums thanks to compound interest. (A great example of this is a 401(k) retirement plan offered by employers where small amounts are allocated from your pay until you can increase your investment.)
• Risk and reward are inseparable: Higher potential returns come with higher risk. Understand your risk tolerance and invest accordingly.
• Discipline over emotions: Fear and greed are market enemies. Stick to your investment strategy and avoid impulsive decisions based on market fluctuations.
• Do your research: Know what you're investing in. Research companies, understand their financials, and critically evaluate investment advice.
• Embrace diversification: Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your investments across different asset classes and sectors to help mitigate risk.
• Time is on your side: The market has historically trended up over the long term. Invest consistently and stay patient for your wealth to grow.

Becoming a lifelong learner benefits us in many aspects of our lives – and the financial realm is no different. The learning curve can feel more approachable when new investors have someone they trust to give them a head start. With dedication and perseverance, emerging investors can navigate the market with confidence and strive to build a secure and prosperous future.

Next steps

• Ask questions to help emerging investors uncover the best place for them to start with their investing journey.
• Consider including your adult-aged children in a call or meeting with your financial advisor
• Remind early and often that investing is a journey and that our goals and needs change over time.

Sources: https://smartasset.com/investing/types-of-investment, https://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/investing.asp, https://www.finra.org/investors/investing/investing-basics

Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation.

This article is educational in nature and every investor's situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.

Links are being provided for information purposes only. Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse, authorize or sponsor any of the listed websites or their respective sponsors. Raymond James is not responsible for the content of any website or the collection or use of information regarding any website’s users and/or members. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional.