BEYOND THE MONEY

A business book offers advice on what comes next for already successful entrepreneurs.

The founder and president of a wealth advisory firm and author of Stress-Free Money (2020), Willardson sees a need for looking beyond one’s established fortune. Rather than provide the counsel typically associated with financial advisers, he focuses on what might be thought of as life planning. Eight tightly written, engaging chapters address compelling issues that face the highly accomplished individual. The book appropriately begins by acknowledging a big challenge for entrepreneurs: “feeling like they have no one they can openly talk to.” The solution—joining a kind of support group for like-minded people—may seem obvious, but Willardson wraps the suggestion around his own experience and those of others who have followed that path, validating the idea. The author’s encouragement to celebrate success is also a simple yet essential idea. Here, Willardson embraces the perhaps counterintuitive concept of “measuring your progress backward” so “you can see the gains and feel happiness.” Other aspects of life get similar treatment, whether it is protecting personal relationships, investing in health, or practicing delegation. Likely to especially resonate with business owners is the notion of control: “It’s important to be willing to let go and not get attached to the methods or the process.” Easier said than done, of course—so again, the author cites pertinent examples from his business and valuable insights from other company owners. The closing two chapters are, in a way, a clarion call for entrepreneurs to reach beyond their initial business victories. Willardson believes it is important to never be completely satisfied because “all progress takes place outside of your comfort zone.” As expected, his view of retirement is nontraditional: “Once you’ve reached a high level of financial freedom and independence, you don’t need to think about money anymore. It’s time to use your vision for a higher purpose.” The author writes in plain language and with clarity, judiciously drawing on other sources to support his argument. He demonstrates a keen understanding of the entrepreneurial psyche and stays true to the book’s concept of exploring key lifestyle issues.

Extremely relatable, sound advice for high achievers.