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G O A L S E T T I N G

CONVERSATIONSKINGDOMK I N G D O M A D V I S O R S

Delivering Biblical Wisdom in Client Conversations

C O N V E R S AT I O N G U I D E

An exclusive member benefit of Kingdom AdvisorsKingdomAdvisors.org

© Ron Blue Library LLC 2013 Used under License (p) Kingdom Advisors, Inc. 2013



Question: Why is Goal Setting important?

Advisor Objectives

Draw a distinction between traditional goal setting and the process of setting faith goals.

Work with your clients, being mindful of who and where they are, in order to facilitate a goal setting pathway that will help them achieve their long-term objectives.

A

B

Your ability to communicate passionately about this conversation begins with you. When you have a well-formed personal conviction about the topic and are relating that conviction to your own life choices, you will communicate more meaningfully with your client. Take the time to articulate your personal conviction regarding the goal setting conversation here:

Personal Conviction


We have provided three tools for you to use with your clients.

1. TOOL #1: The first is relatively short and simple, without categories. It leads people through a process of faith goal setting that will yield five goals, in priority order. This tool is best for people for whom goal setting is a new and possibly overwhelming task.

2. TOOL #2: The second tool is also fashioned around a faith goal setting process. It uses the 11 Buckets Framework to explain the balance between short and long term priorities. This tool yields five final goals. **Note: This tool can be used with the 11 Buckets Diagnostic Questions and 11 Buckets Diagram.

3. TOOL #3: The third tool is more financially oriented, in that it asks clients to consider their financial goals in several key financial planning areas. It is ideal for clients who are very comfortable with goal setting and with a detailed, linear discussion of their financial status and processes. ** Note: This tool can be used with the Goal Setting Diagnostic Questions.


Goal Setting Tools, explained:

The Critical Step of Goal Setting:Understanding and Applying the Goals-Facilitation Process:

Our clients’ goals will likely have different areas of emphasis depending on the advisor’s area of expertise. For example:

Investment Advisor: investment objectives, time horizon, risk tolerance, expected returns

CPA: income tax planning/savings, charitable giving

Estate Attorney: estate tax planning/savings, inheritance objectives, testamentary gifting

Financial Planner: education, retirement, insurance, budgeting / cash flow, debt reduction, charitable giving

Every advisor’s objective is to move toward their client’s life goals and dreams.

What is goals–facilitation?Goals-facilitation is the process by which the Kingdom Advisor helps the client to verbalize their desires and dreams.

Level 1: Financial desires and dreams

Level 2: Personal desires and dreams

Level 3: Spiritual desires and dreams

1. Kingdom opportunities that present themselves in client relationships often necessitate goal setting in order to achieve them.

2. There is a faith-oriented approach to goal setting that brings God into the equation, and you have the opportunity to introduce that approach as they set goals.

3. Goal setting is always an iterative process, and you can provide and accountability along the way.

4. In this conversation, the 11 Buckets Diagram can be a framework for you to discuss the balance between short-term needs/priorities and long-term goals.

Framing The Conversation



How to do Goals Facilitation?

Prepare for goals-facilitation meeting:

1. If possible, provide a written “goals worksheet” to the prospect/client prior to your meeting (ask them to complete, we have provided three optional tools in this Kingdom Conversations module)

2. If married, it is critical that both spouses contribute to the goals worksheet and in-person discussion.

3. Always conduct the goals-facilitation discussion face-to-face.

Conduct the goals-facilitation meeting by:

• Reviewing goals worksheet; • Asking diagnostic questions; • Taking detailed notes.

Diagnostic questions should be prepared in advance until the advisor is comfortable with this process.

The client’s answers to diagnostic questions should be compiled into a list of specific goals and included in the financial plan document

• Recommend listing in order of priority • Include time frames and dollar amounts

If clarity is needed re: specific goals, projected cost or timing, prioritization:

• Send / Email a list of goals to the client ahead of the meeting to deliver the plan and recommendations• Ask the client to review the list and confirm, add, delete, or edit as needed

Begin delivery of planning recommendations by reviewing, affirming client’s goals

Tie planning recommendations back to client’s goals

1. …is the bridge to deeper and more meaningful relationships.2. …greatly enhances your client’s experience.3. …leads to more effective financial, estate, tax and investment planning.

• Client’s goals should drive planning process• Not just “what is” but “what can be”

4. …demonstrates care, concern for, and genuine interest in your clients.5. …helps you encourage your clients during periods of excessive market volatility and economic uncertainty.

• Emphasizes long-term objectives and progress vs. short-term market movement, slow economy • Helps to mitigate client’s fear and anxiety

6. …makes the advisor’s work much more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Why Goals-Facilitation? Because effective goals-facilitation…


For new prospects, the first meeting should always be a goals-facilitation meeting. • Develop alternative method of collecting financial data; do not use initial meeting for this purpose.

Client’s goals should be reviewed at plan delivery (or investment/estate/tax review meeting) and all plan update meetings. • For clients whose plans are updated every few years, advisor should conduct a new goals-facilitation meeting prior to

updating planning recommendations.

For investment-only clients: • Initial (prospect) meeting should still be a goals- facilitation meeting. • Goals should be reviewed annually. • Where appropriate, comprehensive financial plan should be encouraged.

For financial planning clients: • Goals-facilitation is an ongoing process; advisor should review goals with client at least annually. • Progress toward achieving goals should always be reported to client and celebrated.


When to do Goals Facilitation:

“How do I use the client’s goals in their financial planning process?”

• Every financial goal can be quantified • Planning process helps clients to:

• Quantify their goals (How much will it cost?)• Prioritize and re-prioritize their goals (Which ones can I afford and when?) • Allocate excess cash flow to specific goals • Know when each financial goal has been achieved

• Every section of the plan - net worth, giving, debt, budget, cash flow, education, insurance, estate, retirement, investments - ties back to client’s goals

“How do I keep my client focused on their goals in the years following plan delivery?”

• It is the advisor’s responsibility - not the client’s - to keep the client’s goals central to ongoing discussions and plan updates • The advisor needs to acknowledge and celebrate the achievement of each client goal • Investment strategy and performance should be discussed in relation to client’s goals (and progress toward achievement) • Reviewing and revising client’s goals is an ongoing process; goal-setting is dynamic

“How do I initiate the goals-facilitation process with existing clients with whom I’ve never had this type of discussion?”

• Trust that the majority of your clients will be blessed and encouraged by going through this process with you • Introduce goals-facilitation as the “next step” in your advisory relationship • Note that this is a process you are going through with every client in order to serve them more effectively • Explain goals-facilitation as a standard part of the planning process

Common Advisor Questions



“What kind of boundaries should I observe in the ongoing goals-facilitation and accountability process?”

• Honor any ‘client-imposed’ boundaries: respect issues they appear unwilling to discuss or uncomfortable discussing • Don’t impose your own goals or objectives onto your client (i.e. giving, saving, debt reduction, college pre-funding,

investment strategy, etc.) • Revisit difficult issues (either between meetings or at the next meeting) • Remember that our purpose is client discipleship; goals-facilitation opens the door to effective discipleship

“Is there anything else I need to consider, or be prepared for, during the goals-facilitation process?”

• Read and note non-verbal communication; it is often more important than what is spoken • Take detailed, written notes during and after meeting; do not rely on memory • Be willing to lean into difficult areas if the client continues to be willing to engage • Don’t back away from marital tension; be “prayed-up” and encourage healthy discussion; don’t appear to be “taking sides”

but help to make sure both spouses hear the other’s views • Know when to change the subject!



“Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.” PSALM 37:4

“Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.” PSALM 119:105

“ To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue. All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord. Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” PROVERBS 16:1-3

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” PROVERBS 16:9

“ Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” PROVERBS 3:5-6

“ See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up, do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and screams in the wasteland.” ISAIAH 43:19

“ Do not lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” MATTHEW 6:19, 20

“ But seek first His kingdom, and His righteousness; and all these things will be added to you.” MATTHEW 6:33

“ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’ Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’” JOHN 20:27 - 29

“ Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us...” EPHESIANS 3:20

“Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.” PSALM 37:4

“Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.” PSALM 119:105

“ To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue. All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord. Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” PROVERBS 16:1-3

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” PROVERBS 16:9

“ Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” PROVERBS 3:5-6

“ See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up, do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and screams in the wasteland.” ISAIAH 43:19

“ Do not lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” MATTHEW 6:19, 20

“ But seek first His kingdom, and His righteousness; and all these things will be added to you.” MATTHEW 6:33

“ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’ Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’” JOHN 20:27 - 29

Scriptures



“ Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us...” EPHESIANS 3:20

“ Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise—sensible, intelligent people; making the very most of the time— buying up each opportunity—because the days are evil. Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is.” EPHESIANS 5:15-17

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” PHILIPPIANS 4:19

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” I CORINTHIANS 14:33

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” HEBREWS 11:1

“ Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” HEBREWS 13:5



Downloadable Tools:

Goal Setting Weekend Guide

Goal Setting Diagnostic Questions

Goal Setting Tool #1: This tool is fairly broad in its scope, and would be good for someone who has never set goals before or for someone who is not very detail-driven.

Goal Setting Tool #2: This tool is also fairly broad in scope, and is designed to help someone who has perceived barriers to setting goals. It includes breaking goals down into measurable steps; it also includes the “11 Buckets” model for goal setting.

Goal Setting Tool #3: This tool is more detailed and specific in scope. It deals directly with financial goals, driving to specific numbers that are tied to goals. This tool would be ideal for someone who is comfortable with financial scenarios.

Additional Client Resources

It takes too much time

We are not sure what goals to set

We are afraid of failure

We don’t know how

Barriers to Setting Goals:

Without written financial goals, people are responsive rather than proactive. It is important to understand the value of goal setting, since it can be hard to do. Goals facilitate a long-term perspective, allowing for wiser financial choices today. Also, God has made us caretakers of His resources, and goal setting can be an exciting process of interacting with Him about how He wants us to use those resources. Effective goal setting is the vehicle by which we take proactive steps toward financial growth, freedom, and contentment.

“If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there.” – Ron Blue


Why are goals important?G O A L S E T T I N G

The Process of Setting Goals by Faith:

1. Spend time with God, alone, or with your spouse

2. Record your impressions

3. Make your goals measureable

4. Take action

This follows the biblical example of Nehemiah, who started on a journey to rebuild the wall, which was his specific goal, then he prayerfully depended on God for the process and the timing. (Nehemiah, Chapters 1-2)

They provide direction and purpose

They help crystallize our thinking

They provide personal motivation

They are a statement of what we believe God wants us to do with His resourcesthen he prayerfully depended on God for the process and the timing. (Nehemiah, Chapters 1-2)

Next Steps:

“When I begin to move, God has the opportunity to direct my steps.” – Ron Blue

A biblical perspective on goal setting:

The process of goal-setting is as important as the goal itself. A few things to remember in the process are:

• Look ahead, not at the past (Isaiah 43:18 and Ephesians 3:20)• Look at God’s resources, not our own (Luke 1:18, Matthew 6:33)• Look for prayerful agreement with our spouse (Ephesians 5:21 and Romans 12:16) • Look at goals before making financial plans (Ephesians 5:15-17)

Goals are based on having faith and following God’s leading, not on past accomplishments or current resources. Acknowledge that He may want to do a “new thing” in your life (Isaiah 43:19) and that He can “do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think.” (Ephesians 3:20)

Why Set Goals?


(This document complements the corresponding Goals Facilitation Worksheet)

Financial Questions1. How much time, if any, have you spent as a couple discussing your family’s financial dreams and goals? (If

none or very little…) Do you think making time for this kind of discussion would be enjoyable and fruitful? (If yes, consider sending the couple on a goal-setting dinner date.)

2. If you had unlimited financial resources at your disposal, what would you do differently or how would your life change?

3. What are some things that you’ve always wanted to do but have not been able to because of financial limitations?

4. Can you think of one or two major financial concerns that you have, or financial situations you want to avoid?

Net Worth (How much is enough?) 1. Have you been able to determine the level of asset accumulation needed to accomplish all of your

family’s financial goals? (If yes…) How much will you need and do you currently have a plan for hitting your accumulation target? (If no…) How high a priority would this be if you decide to go through the comprehensive planning process?

2. What would you be inclined to do with the excess resources if at some point you’ve exceeded your accumulation goal?

3. Once you’ve achieved your accumulation target, what do you think will be your greatest financial concerns?4. How would you describe having complete financial peace of mind?5. Are there parents on either side of your family for whom you might become financially responsible at some

point? What might that responsibility look like?6. Do you anticipate receiving an inheritance in the future? (If yes…) Do you know how much will be inherited?

Should these additional assets be incorporated into your financial plan?

Education 1. What is your family’s preferred process for education (public, private or home school; community, public or

private college)?2. (If college…) What percentage of your kids’ college expenses do you feel comfortable assuming

responsibility for?3. (If college…) Would it be helpful to have a pre-funding plan in place for college expenses or do you plan to

fund from cash flow at that time?4. (If grandchildren…) If you had the excess resources, how would you feel about being able to help with your

grandchildren’s education costs?

Giving 1. What is your attitude toward charitable giving, either to individuals in need or to non-profit organizations?2. (If not giving or no interest…) Would you ever consider charitable giving as part of a strategy to reduce

income taxes?3. (If giving or interested) What kinds or charitable organizations have you supported in the past and which

have brought you the greatest joy and fulfillment?4. Which charitable causes do you feel most strongly about helping with?5. In addition to giving financially, are you or have you been involved in volunteering your time for charitable

causes? (If yes…) Which organizations have you most enjoyed volunteering for? Which have you least enjoyed?

6. What are your primary motivations for giving money or time to charity?7. If you had more resources available to you, would your charitable giving levels remain the same or would

they most likely increase?

Diagnostic Questions for a Goals Facilitation Meeting


Budget 1. What have been some of your greatest challenges with regard to tracking and controlling your expenses?2. To what extent, if any, has the budgeting process caused tension/stress/anxiety in your relationship?3. What kind of process for tracking and controlling expenses would most likely result in peace of mind and

marital unity/harmony?

Cash Flow 1. Will you have any major, irregular expenses or large cash outflows pending over the next several years?

(Examples might be: home renovations; car replacement; charitable giving commitments; major family vacation; boat or second home purchase; etc.)

2. If you were to be surprised by a large, unexpected cash windfall (i.e. $50 or $100K) in the next year, what do you think you would do with the money?

3. Are there any specific financial areas, or types of expenses, that have consistently created marital disharmony?

Investments 1. What has been your best experience in the past with an investment advisor?2. How involved do you like to be in the process of selecting investments and structuring an appropriate

portfolio? 3. Which types of investments have you been most comfortable with or had the greatest success with?4. What would be some of your greatest concerns with regard to your investment portfolio?5. What type of investment strategy or process would most likely bring the greatest peace of mind?

Retirement 1. If you were financially able to retire today, would you most likely do so or would you continue working at

your present job? Why?2. Could you envision yourself changing careers at some point, and if so, what new career would you like to

pursue?3. At what age do you plan to retire? Is there an earlier age that you would like to retire if able?4. Can you describe what a successful and fulfilling retirement would look like?5. In retirement, how would you envision dividing your time between leisure, travel, part-time work,

volunteering, hobbies, etc.?6. Can you imagine and describe a retirement scenario that would not be ideal, or that could even cause

stress and anxiety? (Examples might be: forced early retirement; poor health; alienation from kids/grandkids; running out of money; spouse passing away; having nothing meaningful to do; etc.)

7. What are one or two things you would love to do in retirement that you’ve not had the time or resources to do while working?

Insurance 1. In the event of your (the primary income earner’s) untimely death, what would be your primary financial

objectives for your surviving spouse and kids? (Examples might be: pay-off all debt; pay for private school, college; provide enough assets for the spouse to be financially independent; provide enough assets for just a few years while the spouse prepares to reenter the work force; etc.)

2. If you were financially independent, what do you think you would do with your existing life insurance policies?

3. Do you see life insurance as existing primarily for protection in the event of an untimely death or as a sound savings/investment strategy?

Diagnostic Questions for a Goals Facilitation Meeting, p. 2


Estate 1. Assuming you’ve been able to accumulate a large estate, how would you like to see those assets divided at

the second death?2. To what extent is minimizing or eliminating estate taxes one of your estate planning goals?3. Is there an amount of inheritance above which you would be uncomfortable passing down to your adult

children?4. Do you feel that all of your children should be treated equally in terms of the inheritance they receive,

regardless of such things as their financial position, financial responsibility and relationship with you and their siblings?

5. Do you have any interest in making charitable gifts as part of your estate plan either as a means of reducing taxes or limiting inheritance amounts, or to bless one or more of your favorite organizations?

Diagnostic Questions for a Goals Facilitation Meeting, p. 3

G O A L S E T T I N G W O R K S H E E T

Writing down your goals can be a mental roadblock to many people. But do not be afraid to take this step! Without written goals, you will never know when you have reached your finish line. Attaining a goal brings a great feeling of success.

The Bible says in Psalm 37:4 (NKJV), “Delight yourself in the Lord and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” Pray about what goals you should have, and God will reveal His desires for you.

As you set your goals, remember that the process is dynamic. Write your goals in sand, not in concrete. Know that even if you have set a faith goal, God can intervene and change your path. Goal setting is a faith process; as Christians, are called to walk by faith. Remember that “without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6, NIV).

As you set your goals write them along these lines: I believe God would have me:

.How do you know God’s will for you? Spend time in prayer and reading scripture, talking to God about it. Then write down what you feel like you should do, make it measurable, and take action. Setting goals should be a process that asks for God’s direction and takes action towards that direction.

Record your financial goals below. Some examples of financial goals are to: cut spending, eliminate debt, start a business, retire, put children through college, give to charity, or provide extracurricular activities for your children.

Take the first step of recording your goals and dreams by making a list:

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

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10.

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12.

Goal Setting Process

The second step is to consolidate and refine your financial goals and dreams.

Look at your list and check it. Do you have any goals that can be combined? For example, did you list pay off credit cards and reduce debt? Those two could be one goal. The purpose of this step is to refine your list so that your goals are clearly stated and distinct.

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2.

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5.

The third step is to prioritize your goals.

Put them in order of importance. If you have a lot of goals, choose the top five in order of priority.

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The forth step is to quantify your top five goals.

Put the goals in numeric terms – how much money and/or time will be required to reach your objective? Without quantifying a goal, it is hard to be effective in pursuing that goal.

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2.

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The fifth and final step is to keep your goals visible.

Write them down, and put them in a place where you will see them regularly. Some ideas for this are to keep them in a notebook you use for your quiet time, or to post them on your dashboard, on your bathroom mirror, or inside your checkbook cover. Periodically review your goals, and revise or eliminate as your circumstances change or you accomplish your goals!

When you have set your financial goals, you should be able to answer three questions with an answer that makes you comfortable:

1. Has God led you to the goal either directly or by virtue of His calling on your life or a role that He has given you?

2. Will the accomplishment of the goal bring glory to Him?

3. Are you and your spouse in agreement about this goal?


• Goals provide purpose and direction

• Goals help translate your thoughts into tangible steps

• Goals provide personal motivation

• Goals can help clarify God’s will, especially in times of crisis

OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO SETTING GOALS

What goal-setting barriers, if any, are standing in your way (lack of time, fear of failure, tendency to be overwhelmed with details, lack of self-discipline, etc.)? Write them here and ask God to show you how overcome them through Him.

PREPARING FOR GOAL SETTING The following series of questions is designed to help prepare to set accurate and realistic goals.

GETTING STARTED 1. Pick a specific date and place where you can spend uninterrupted time alone with God. Commit to it here.

2. During this time read Scripture and pray, allowing God to speak to you. Record your ideas, impressions, and desires here.

3. Identify your perceived strengths, gifts and abilities. Record them here.

WHY SET GOALS?


SHORT-TERM

• Do I have peace of mind with my financial decision-making?

• What am I most concerned about in the next six to twelve months?

• What am I most concerned about in the next one to five years?

• Am I comfortable with my level of charitable giving?

• Am I paying too much in taxes?

• Are my living expenses too high or too low?


4. Answer the following questions about your financial goals

LONG-TERM

• What am I most concerned about in the long term?

• Are there some potential financial events that cause me fear?

• Am I comfortable with my debt level?

• Am I making progress towards my goals?

• Should I reposition my investment

• portfolio?


4. Answer the following questions about your financial goals

New Business

LifestyleDesires

FamilyNeeds

TAXES GIVING

DEBT LIVINGEXPENSES

FinancialIndependence

CharitableGiving

Freedom From Debt

SAVE ANDINVEST

INCOME1

Summarize presentposition

2Establish

financial goals

3Prioritize

uses

5Monitor your

results

4Control

cash flow toaccomplish

plan

5. Consolidate your ideas and thoughts into several broad, “big picture” goals that are measurable, realistic, challenging and specific. (Example: Payoff mortgage loan by November 2020, increase giving to 15% of income in 2 years.)


Goal #1:

Goal #2:

Goal #3:

Goal #4:

Goal #5:

6. Briefly outline the steps you will need to take to reach these “big picture” goals. As you pursue each goal, it may help if you:

• Identify any barriers that exist • Establish a personal accountability system • Set a time frame or deadline for accomplishing the goal

Goal #1: Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Barriers: Accountable to: Time frame to Accomplish:



Goal #4: Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Barriers: Accountable to: Time frame to Accomplish: Goal #5: Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: Barriers: Accountable to: Time frame to Accomplish:

Refer to these goals often and chart your progress. Review goals at least annually; and establish new ones as your financial situation changes. These goals will serve as the basis for your financial road map.


What are your highest-priority financial and life goals?

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6.

Following is a list of sample goals to stimulate your thinking. Please add your own goals and quantify the amounts and timing (if applicable). Also, please prioritize each goal as follows:

A – Top priority B – Strong Desire C – Would Like To

Priority Quantified (A, B or C) (How much/when?)

Net Worth

To be completely debt-free ____ ___________

To establish an emergency savings fund ____ ___________

To purchase a larger home or other property ____ ___________

To achieve specified net worth ____ ___________

Other ________________________________ ____ ___________

Education

Provide homeschool or private school education for children/grandchildren ____ ___________

Provide college education for children/grandchildren by funding ____% of the cost ____ ___________

Establish 529 college savings plan to pre-fund college costs for children/grandchildren ____ ___________

Other __________________________________________________________________ ____ ___________

Giving

To give _____% per year to charitable causes ____ ___________

To make additional gifts as needs arise ____ ___________

To make gifts of particular property ____ ___________

To include a charitable giving clause in Will ____ ___________

Other ________________________________ ____ ___________


Budget

To establish a written budget to help monitor spending ____ ___________

To limit discretionary expenses to _____% of budget until ____ ___________giving/saving/debt reduction goals are accomplished

To add the following categories to monthly budget (e.g. date ____ ___________ nights, family activities, lawn care, etc. – please specify)

1. ____________________________________________ ____ ___________

2. ____________________________________________ ____ ___________

3. ____________________________________________ ____ ___________

Other ____________________________________________ ____ ___________

Cash Flow

To make a major purchase (please specify) ____ ___________

To set aside $__________ per month for car replacement ____ ___________

To save _____% of annual income ____ ___________

To take a family vacation to ___________________________ ____ ___________

To reduce amount paid in income taxes _________________ ____ ___________

Other ____________________________________________ ____ ___________

Investments

To start a business ____ ___________

To build a liquid investment portfolio ____ ___________

To make a real estate investment ____ ___________

To purchase a ___________________ franchise ____ ___________

Other ____________________________________________ ____ ___________

Retirement

To retire with income sufficient to maintain current lifestyle ____ ___________

To retire at age _____ ____ ___________

To build retirement plan assets to specified amount ____ ___________

To change job/career (please specify) ____ ___________

Other ____________________________________________ ____ ___________


Insurance

To protect family lifestyle in event of death ____ ___________

To protect family lifestyle in event of disability ____ ___________

To protect against major catastrophe ____ ___________

Other ____________________________________________ ____ ___________

Estate

To accumulate an estate in order to pass to heirs ____ ___________

To minimize estate taxes ____ ___________

To provide adequate estate liquidity ____ ___________

To provide adequate assets for a surviving spouse/family ____ ___________

To leave _____% of assets to charity at death/second death ____ ___________

To have estate documents reviewed and updated as needed ____ ___________

Other ____________________________________________ ____ ___________



Planning The Weekend

Friday Evening Begin your planning weekend with a relaxed, unstructured evening. Don’t try to make any plans or set any

goals; rather, simply enjoy spending time together. Take time to pray together: prayer is what will make the difference between a weekend of wishful thinking (or selfish dreaming) and one that allows you to focus on purposeful, deliberate God- given goals and strategies for your lives.

Saturday Morning Take time apart from one another to go through the Goal-Setting Questionnaire (try and focus on those

that are most relevant or your own specific questions). As you answer the questions, think about which ones matter most to you and how they might eventually translate into specific goals. Feel free to revise the questions or add different ones that might apply to your individual relationship and circumstances.

Lunch Break Take a break from the questionnaire and relax. Go for a walk or enjoy some other kind of recreation before

you start your afternoon session.

Saturday Afternoon Complete the questionnaire (if you haven’t already done so) and get together with your spouse to compare

notes. Are there questions or issues that matter to both of you? Are there obvious differences in the things that each of you sees as important? Talk through your answers and conclude your time with prayer.

Saturday Evening Put your questionnaires on the back burner and let the information “simmer” while you and your spouse

enjoy dinner, recreation, and romance.

Sunday Morning After breakfast, spend some time praying together and reading a passage of Scripture. This can be a

formal devotional time, planned in advance of your weekend, or an impromptu worship experience.

Get out your questionnaires, along with the Goal-Setting Worksheet. Your job is to use the answers recorded on your questionnaires as a springboard for prayerfully developing goals in the six major categories: Spiritual, Financial, Marriage, Family, Social, and Physical. Again, adapt this worksheet to meet your own needs; not every couple will want to pursue goals in each of these six areas, and there may be other categories (such as vocational or intellectual goals) that you want to concentrate on.

Resolve to set (and pursue) at least one goal in each category. It will help if you write your goals in terms that can be measured or quantified: For example, in the Financial category, your goal may be “To get our of debt within the next three years” or “To establish a college savings plan for our children and contribute at least XX dollars each month for the next eight years.”

Break for lunch on Sunday, and then continue your goal-setting if you have more information you want to cover.

Goal Setting Weekend – Married Couples


Goal-Setting QuestionnaireThe questions and categories listed on this questionnaire are not meant to be all- inclusive. Adapt,ignore, or supplement them as you need to. Don’t try to pinpoint any “right” or “wrong” answers; rather,use this document as a catalogue of ideas to jump-start your goal-setting process and help you understandand appreciate your spouse’s thoughts and priorities. Record your answers on a separate sheet of paper.

Financial Questions 1. Do I feel comfortable with the amount of money we make? 2. Is there anything we can do to improve our financial situation? 3. Do we have an adequate amount of life insurance? What about home, health, and auto coverage? Do I

know how to locate and use the policy information? 4. Do we need to reduce our taxes? Are we under- or over-withholding? 5. Are we giving away the right amount or percentage of our income? Are our gifts being used for the

right purposes or organizations? When is the best time for us to give--weekly, monthly, or on some other schedule?

6. How much debt do we have? Is this an acceptable amount? Since we try to get out of debt, or avoid it altogether?

7. How much are we saving? How much should we be saving? What are we saving for? How often should we set money aside, and where should we put it?

8. Why are we investing? How much should we invest? Am I comfortable with how our investment portfolio is allocated? Should we be more (or less) aggressive in our investment approach?

9. How much should we spend on things like our house, our vacations, our cars, etc.? 10. Do we want to send our children to private/Christian school? How much will that cost? How much are we

willing/able to spend on a college education for our children?

Marriage Questions 1. Is our marriage headed in the right direction? Are we growing closer and is the relationship maturing? 2. Am I meeting my spouse’s emotional, physical, and intellectual needs? 3. Is my spouse meeting my emotional, physical, and intellectual needs? 4. Do we clearly communicate with one another? 5. Should we go out more often, or make more time for romance? 6. Do I tell my spouse “I love you” often enough? What do I do or say to show my love? 7. What can we do to improve our sexual relationship? 8. What do we want our marriage to look like five years from now? 9. What do I see as the husband’s primary responsibilities in the marriage relationship? 10. What do I see as the wife’s primary responsibilities in the marriage relationship?

Family Questions – if you have children 1. How many children would we like to have? 2. Do we consistently and properly love our children? 3. Do we consistently and properly discipline them? 4. What are the most important character traits we want to see our children develop? 5. What rules do we want to establish for our children at home and in public? 6. Where should we go on vacation? How should we spend weekends and other leisure time? 7. Does our devotion to our children interfere with or hamper our marriage relationship? 8. If something were to happen to us, who would we want to serve as the guardian for our children? Have we

provided for our children through a Will? 9. Do we support one another in front of our children? 10. According to the following passages, what are the main responsibilities of parent and children? Col. 3:20-

21; Heb. 12:5-11; Prov. 3:11-12; Eph. 6:4.


Spiritual Questions 1. Am I spending consistent, quality time with the Lord? Is my spiritual relationship stagnant or progressive? 2. Should we have family devotions? What should they look like? 3. Am I providing spiritual encouragement for my spouse? 4. Should we be more involved in personal evangelism? 5. Are we active in our church? 6. What are my primary spiritual gifts? 7. What are my spouse’s primary spiritual gifts? 8. Are we effectively using these gifts for the Kingdom of God? 9. What can we do to improve our prayer life, individually and as a couple? 10. What should our ministry focus be?

Social Questions 1. Is there a proper balance between my time spent at home and away from home? 2. Should we entertain more? 3. Should we be making an effort to get to know more people? 4. Are there any specific people I would like to get to know better? 5. Are we involved in our community, schools, and/or social organizations? 6. Are we over-committed to social, athletic, or other activities? 7. Do our children demonstrate wisdom when choosing their friends? 8. Do we demonstrate wisdom when choosing friends and social activities? 9. Are there people in the church and neighborhood that we should help, befriend, and care for? 10. Is our home an inviting place for our friends and our children’s friends to gather?

Physical Questions 1. How can I improve my eating habits? 2. How can we improve our family’s eating habits? 3. Are we getting enough exercise? 4. Is my spouse getting enough exercise? 5. Are our children involved in athletic or physical activities? 6. Are there any skills or sports I want to learn (i.e., to play the piano, speak French, or play tennis)? 7. Do I need to lose/gain weight? 8. Is there anything I should do to make myself more attractive to my spouse? 9. Are there any athletic goals I want to pursue (i.e., being able to run a mile--or a marathon)? 10. What can I do to encourage or enable my spouse to meet his/her physical


Planning The WeekendIf you tend to be more extroverted and are stimulated by the company of others you may want to consider going with someone else so that you can spend the “recreation” time together. Conversely, if you prefer personal down time and time alone, then a weekend alone may be perfect for you.

Friday Evening Begin your planning weekend with a relaxed, unstructured evening. Don’t try to make any plans or set

any goals; rather, simply enjoy some quiet time. Take time to pray: prayer is what will make the difference between a weekend of wishful thinking (or selfish dreaming) and one that allows you to focus on purposeful, deliberate God-given goals and strategies for your life.

Saturday Morning Take time to go through the Goal-Setting Questionnaire (try and focus on those that are most relevant or

your own specific questions). As you answer the questions, think about which ones matter most to you and how they might eventually translate into specific goals. Feel free to revise the questions or add different ones that might apply to your circumstances.

Lunch Break Take a break from the questionnaire and relax. Go for a walk or enjoy some other kind of recreation before

you start your afternoon session.

Saturday Afternoon Spend time completing the questionnaire. Think through your answers and conclude your time with prayer.

Saturday Evening Put your questionnaire on the back burner and let the information “simmer” while you enjoy dinner,

recreation or some other activity.

Sunday Morning After breakfast, spend some time praying and reading a passage of Scripture. This can be a formal

devotional time, planned in advance of your weekend, or an impromptu worship experience.

Get out your questionnaire, along with the Goal-Setting Worksheet. Your job is to use the answers recorded on your questionnaire as a springboard for prayerfully developing goals in the six major categories: Spiritual, Financial, Marriage, Family, Social, and Physical. Again, adapt this worksheet to meet your own needs; not every person will want to pursue goals in each of these six areas, and there may be other categories (such as vocational or intellectual goals) that you want to concentrate on.

Resolve to set (and pursue) at least one goal in each category. It will help if you write your goals in terms that can be measured or quantified: For example, in the Financial category, your goal may be “To get our of debt within the next three years” or “To save for a down payment on a house by saving at least XX dollars each month for the next two years.”

Break for lunch on Sunday, and then continue your goal-setting if you have more information you want to cover.

Goal Setting Weekend – Singles


Goal-Setting QuestionnaireThe questions and categories listed on this questionnaire are not meant to be all- inclusive. Adapt, ignore, or supplement them as you need to. Don’t try to pinpoint any “right” or “wrong” answers; rather, use this document as a catalogue of ideas to jump-start your goal-setting process and help you understand thoughts and priorities. Record your answers on a separate sheet of paper.

Financial Questions 1. Do I feel comfortable with the amount of money I make? 2. Is there anything I can do to improve my financial situation? 3. Do I have an adequate amount of life insurance? What about home, health, and auto coverage? Do I know

how to locate and use the policy information? 4. Do I need to reduce my taxes? Am I under- or over-withholding? 5. Am I giving away the right amount or percentage of my income? Are my gifts being used for the right

purposes or organizations? When is the best time for me to give--weekly, monthly, or on some other schedule?

6. How much debt do I have? Is this an acceptable amount? Should I try to get out of debt, or avoid it altogether?

7. How much am I saving? How much should I be saving? What Am I saving for? How often should I set money aside, and where should I put it?

8. Why Am I investing? How much should I invest? Am I comfortable with how my investment portfolio is allocated? Should I be more (or less) aggressive in my investment approach?

9. How much should I spend on things like my house, my vacations, cars, etc.? 10. Do I want to send my children to a private/Christian school? How much

Family Questions – if you have children 1. Do I consistently and properly love my children? 2. Do I consistently and properly discipline them? 3. What are the most important character traits I want to see my children develop? 4. What rules do I want to establish for my children at home and in public? 5. Where should we go on vacation? How should we spend weekends and other leisure time? 6. Does my devotion to my children interfere with or hamper other relationships? 7. If something were to happen to me, whom would I want to serve as the guardian for my children? Have I

provided for my children through a will? 8. According to the following passages, what are the main responsibilities of parents and children? Col. 3:20-

21; Heb. 12:5-11; Prov. 3:11-12; Eph. 6:4.

Spiritual Questions 1. Am I spending consistent, quality time with the Lord? Is my spiritual relationship stagnant or progressive? 2. Should we have family devotions? What should they look like? 3. Should I be more involved in personal evangelism? 4. Am I active in our church and are my children involved? 5. What are my primary spiritual gifts? 6. Am I effectively using these gifts for the Kingdom of God? 7. What can I do to improve prayer life, individually and as a family? 8. What should my ministry focus be?



Social Questions 1. Is there a proper balance between my time spent at home and away from home? 2. Should I entertain more? 3. Should I be making an effort to get to know more people? 4. Are there any specific people I would like to get to know better? 5. Am I involved in the community, schools, and/or social organizations? 6. Am I over-committed to social, athletic, or other activities? 7. Do my children demonstrate wisdom when choosing their friends? 8. Do I demonstrate wisdom when choosing friends and social activities? 9. Are there people in the church and neighborhood that I should help, befriend, and care for? 10. Is our home an inviting place for my friends and my children’s friends to gather?

Physical Questions 1. How can I improve my eating habits? 2. How can I improve my family’s eating habits? 3. Am I getting enough exercise? 4. Are my children involved in athletic or physical activities? 5. Are there any skills or sports I want to learn (i.e., to play the piano, speak French, or play ,tennis)? 6. Do I need to lose/gain weight? 7. Are there any athletic goals I want to pursue (i.e., being able to run a mile--or a marathon)?


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