Hey everyone, it's me, Joe Soto, back with another episode of Wealth in the Fifth Dimension. Today, we're diving deep into something that's been on my mind lately, something I think is crucial for every family leader out there: the biggest risk you face isn't financial ruin or external pressures—it's if your family doesn't believe in you.

Now, I've been working on developing a family mission statement, which, as you know, I believe is the bedrock of any solid financial plan. But as I was doing this, a thought hit me: I don't even have a personal mission statement! How can I guide my family if I'm not even clear on my own path? It's like trying to lead a hiking expedition without a map or compass.

This led me to reflect on something I see all too often: the "do as I say, not as I do" syndrome. We've all seen it. Parents preaching health and fitness while they're struggling with their own weight. Parents lecturing about saving money while they're constantly in debt. It creates confusion and disconnect. How can we expect our families to follow our lead if our actions don't align with our words?

Another challenge is the constant shifting of opinions and priorities. One day you're doing things one way, then a friend makes a suggestion, or you see something on social media, and boom, you're changing everything. This creates instability and makes it hard for your family to trust your direction. They start to feel like they're on a rollercoaster, never knowing what's coming next.

But it's not all doom and gloom. There's a flip side to this, a huge opportunity. It's about leading by example. When your actions mirror your words, it builds trust and respect. When your kids see you prioritizing your health, they're more likely to value their own. When you're open and transparent about finances, it removes the stigma and encourages healthy conversations. And when you live authentically by your spiritual principles, it provides a solid foundation for your family.

It's also about having a core set of values that remain constant, a north star that guides your decisions. Things that don't change with the wind. And, of course, having a personal mission statement. It's not just a document; it's a declaration of who you are and what you stand for. I actually just finished writing mine, and I shared it with my family. It's a game-changer.

This whole process has made me ask some tough questions. What do you think about most of the time? Do you have a clear sense of direction? Does your family know what you believe in and where you're taking them? These are questions we all need to wrestle with.

So, I'll leave you with this: Do you have a personal mission statement? Do you have a family mission statement? And if not, how do you think that's impacting your family, your finances, your relationships, your spirituality? Think about it. And in the meantime, don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and share it with anyone who could benefit from this message. Let's build stronger families together. Until next time, this is Joe Soto, signing off.