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As we move into December and begin turning our thoughts toward 2026, here’s a fresh opportunity: instead of just setting goals, let’s build a plan. According to a recent article from Investopedia, nearly 47% of Americans say they don’t have a written financial plan. That gap means many people are heading into the new year with good intentions, but without a roadmap. At EFS Advisors, we believe that a fresh start is also the perfect time to turn intention into action.

Why a Written Plan Makes the Difference

• A plan anchors your finances to your goals and values—not just your to-do list. The Investopedia article points out the emotional and psychological barriers many people face: uncertainty, perfectionism, and a fear of what the numbers will show.
• Without writing things down, it’s easy for finances to drift. You might save and invest, but you could still be off‐course about how much you’ll need, what you’re really working toward, or how you're protecting against risks.
• When you head into a new year with a plan in place, you’re not just starting fresh. You’re starting smarter.

Four Steps to Turn Intentions into a Written Plan Before 2026

1. Clarify your “big why.” What are you building toward? Retirement? Legacy? Freedom? When you anchor your plan in purpose, it becomes more than just numbers... it becomes meaningful.
2. Write down the key numbers. Where do you stand now? What income do you expect? What savings rate will get you where you want to go? These don’t need to be perfect, but they need to be real.
3. Build in guardrails. What happens if markets dip? What if taxes rise? A written plan lets you build in flexibility so you’re not reacting when life (or the economy) changes.
4. Schedule a review. One of the biggest gaps: many people start a plan and forget to revisit it. Before the year ends, set a date (or schedule with your advisor) to check your map and tweak it for 2026.

How EFS Advisors Can Help You Start Strong

At EFS, we specialize in helping clients take that next step from “thinking about planning” to actually having a written, actionable plan. We’ll help you:

• Translate your values into a financial roadmap.
• Organize your numbers, savings, investments and risks into one coherent picture.
• Meet with an advisor who holds you accountable and updates your plan as life changes.

Bottom Line

As the calendar flips toward 2026, it’s not just about resolutions, it’s about commitment. Almost half of Americans don’t have a written financial plan. You don’t have to be part of that group.
If you want to start the new year with confidence, reach out today—whether you’re ready to connect with a new advisor or revisit your existing plan with EFS Advisors. Let’s make your next chapter a planned one.