Giving Goes Flat

There are no inflexible financial goals in life. There is only so much one can spend. How much is enough to leave children and grandchildren and great grandchildren not yet born? A wise person once said, “I want to leave my children enough so they can work at anything they choose, but not enough so they don’t have to work at all.”

The big question is, what’s enough? For some, the truly honest answer to that question is, “less than you’re planning to leave.” Perhaps they should think about leaving enough to give their heirs a leg up, or a helping hand at some stage of their lives, but stop before they risk robbing them of the challenge and satisfaction of achieving success on their own. Who knows?

What I’m saying is that people whose post-recession net worth is still vast might give some thought to giving more today. The old line about whoever dies with the most chips is the winner doesn’t get a smile anymore. I’m sure some who read these words will think I’ve gone daffy or have turned into a socialist or worse. But these times have caused me to rethink some things, and perhaps I’m not alone.

So despite the hits you’ve taken, the next time you’re asked to give, listen to the answer from that voice in your conscience. It’s saying, “Yes, but your portfolio is still half full.”