Recently, a new financial advisor moved into my neighborhood, just four houses down. On paper, we’re nearly identical—both with two kids around the same age, working in the same industry. We’ve had a few beers together, chatting both casually and about work. He’s a good guy. We even share a habit of getting our steps in after dropping the kids off at school. But that’s where our similarities end.



While he leisurely...Recently, a new financial advisor moved into my neighborhood, just four houses down. On paper, we’re nearly identical—both with two kids around the same age, working in the same industry. We’ve had a few beers together, chatting both casually and about work. He’s a good guy. We even share a habit of getting our steps in after dropping the kids off at school. But that’s where our similarities end.



While he leisurely walks his dog, stopping to chat with neighbors (prospecting, perhaps?), I’m running, clocking a 9:45-per-mile pace. There’s a small pond in our neighborhood that we both loop, but by the time he completes his single lap, I’m already on my second of four. When I finish my route, I’ve logged 5 to 6 miles, passing him at least twice, as I push further out and loop back in. He covers about 1.5 miles in the same time.

Here’s the thing: he walks five days a week, and I only run four. Yet, by the end of the week, I’ve completed 22 miles—nearly three times his 7.5. The difference is subtle at first, but over time it compounds. By the end of the year, I’ll be more than 750 miles ahead.



This isn’t about who’s right or wrong—it’s about ambition, consistency, and goal-setting. Some people are content to take it slow, coasting through both life and work. Others set goals, even if they’re only slightly more ambitious, knowing that small daily differences can lead to significantly different outcomes over time.



I’m not claiming my way is the only way, but I’ve seen how my approach—both in fitness and in my career—pays dividends in the long run. It’s a reminder that compounding doesn’t just apply to money but to every small decision we make, every day.



And just to be clear, I know I’m not the fastest distance runner. In high school, I was a sprinter, but now I’m working on changing my stride and building endurance towards a much larger goal three years from now. Show more

While Twain wasn’t referring to finances, his wisdom is highly relevant to financial planning.

In the world of wealth management, the "frog" represents the tasks we tend to avoid—like creating a budget, eliminating debt, or setting up an investment plan. These are the challenging, often uncomfortable steps we know we need to take but often avoid. Yet, once tackled, the sense of relief and control makes everything...While Twain wasn’t referring to finances, his wisdom is highly relevant to financial planning.

In the world of wealth management, the "frog" represents the tasks we tend to avoid—like creating a budget, eliminating debt, or setting up an investment plan. These are the challenging, often uncomfortable steps we know we need to take but often avoid. Yet, once tackled, the sense of relief and control makes everything else more manageable.

When you approach financial planning with this mindset, you start to see that the initial sacrifices—whether it's cutting down on non-essential spending or committing to a long-term savings goal are not burdens; they are investments in your future self. By doing the hard work now, you create a ripple effect that will ease financial pressure in the years to come.

Think of it like planting a tree. It takes effort to dig, nurture, and wait for it to grow. But over time, that tree will provide shade, shelter, and fruit. In the same way, making disciplined financial choices today creates the stability, security, and freedom you'll enjoy for years to come. It’s not just about having money; it’s about having options—whether that’s retiring early, traveling, or simply living without financial stress.

So, what’s your financial "frog"? And how will eating it today lead to a more comfortable, empowered future? Show more

My heart is still heavy from the devastation Hurricane Helene caused in Western North Carolina, and now, Hurricane Milton is about to hit Florida. As a former first responder, it's tough not being able to physically help, but I know it's best to let those familiar with the area lead the efforts. I'm doing what I can to assist in other ways.

If you or someone you know was impacted by Helene, the IRS has announced...My heart is still heavy from the devastation Hurricane Helene caused in Western North Carolina, and now, Hurricane Milton is about to hit Florida. As a former first responder, it's tough not being able to physically help, but I know it's best to let those familiar with the area lead the efforts. I'm doing what I can to assist in other ways.

If you or someone you know was impacted by Helene, the IRS has announced tax relief, including postponed filing deadlines for affected areas. Find more details in the official announcement here:

www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-announces-tax-relief-for-….

Stay safe, everyone. 💙 Show more

Hi everyone!
I’m honored to have been featured in a Fox Business article where I shared insights on how Americans can stay financially secure during uncertain economic times. From building a strong emergency fund to making smart investment choices, these tips can help you navigate a potential recession with confidence.

forfiduciary.com/blog/fbn-article-recession-prepar…

Excited to share that I've been featured on the latest episode of Paula Christine’s Beyond The Paycheck podcast! We dive deep into the importance of financial literacy and how it can truly transform lives. Tune in to hear my thoughts on creating financial freedom and the steps you can take to secure your future.

Check it out here: forfiduciary.com/blog/-podcast-ptp-andrew-van-alstyne

I'm excited to share that I was featured on the Financial Freedom Podcast with Dr. Christopher Loo! We dive deep into strategies for preserving and growing wealth across generations, avoiding common pitfalls, and educating the next generation on financial literacy. Listen in to gain valuable insights that can help you secure your financial legacy. Don’t miss out on these tips!

...I'm excited to share that I was featured on the Financial Freedom Podcast with Dr. Christopher Loo! We dive deep into strategies for preserving and growing wealth across generations, avoiding common pitfalls, and educating the next generation on financial literacy. Listen in to gain valuable insights that can help you secure your financial legacy. Don’t miss out on these tips!

forfiduciary.com/blog/-podcast-ffp-andrew-van-alst… Show more

Financial Freedom Podcast with Dr. Christopher Loo: Mastering Generational Wealth Action Point Financial is an independent, fee-only wealth management firm founded on the core principles of conflict free and low cost investment advice and financial… forfiduciary.com/blog/-podcast-ffp-andrew-van-alstyne

Discover the Power of a Family Bank

Many American families face the challenge of preserving and growing their wealth across generations. My latest article explores the concept of a family bank — a structured system to manage and utilize family wealth effectively.

Inspired by Emily Griffiths-Hamilton's "Build Your Family Bank" and James E. Hughes Jr.'s "Family Wealth," this guide offers valuable insights into...Discover the Power of a Family Bank

Many American families face the challenge of preserving and growing their wealth across generations. My latest article explores the concept of a family bank — a structured system to manage and utilize family wealth effectively.

Inspired by Emily Griffiths-Hamilton's "Build Your Family Bank" and James E. Hughes Jr.'s "Family Wealth," this guide offers valuable insights into creating a financial legacy for your family.

Read more to transform your wealth management approach: forfiduciary.com/blog/2024/07/17/vanalstyne/power-… Show more

The five forms of family capital

The 5 Pillars of Capital For Your Legacy with...

The enemy of holistic legacy planning is not having a plan. Not only is this true if you are in the early stages of growing your wealth or if you are in a multi-generational family of wealth. But how many times do we put off the difficult conversations around money, mortality or even balancing checkbooks? That kind of bobbing at sea can leave you to figure out your legacy plans the same way your parents did,...

Took the family to Disney World last week to celebrate my wife and son's birthdays as well as my daughter finishing kindergarten.

Check out my latest article: www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/ask-an-advisor-what-s…