Financial expert Victoria Collins

Just a few glimmers of hope shining through the long lasting headlines of doom and gloom make us hopeful the worst is past and it’s time to turn the page. Adjusting now to what is being called the “new normal” - thrift for consumers, anemic growth for the economy and mediocre returns for the stock markets - isn’t easy and will take time. The impact of this recession and of government spending will likely be felt by our children and grandchildren for years to come.

Putting the US economy aside, ask anyone over 50 how they feel about their personal economy and it’s no doubt they feel especially vulnerable. Not only is it hard to make back money lost, but withdrawals now gobble a greater percentage of investment value because of the decline. That portfolio that you have worked so hard to build over the years and on which you based your financial future, may not be sufficient for the lifestyle you want.

Adjusting now to the “new normal” requires us to stop looking in the rear view mirror and stay focused on the road ahead.

We’ve all seen individuals who text, eat, drink, read, even shave or apply makeup while driving. These drivers think they are paying attention but studies show those distractions can lead to disaster. Analogous to this - we think we are paying appropriate attention to our personal finances but busy lives get in the way.

For all of us, there are times when it pays to seek professional help rather than continue down the road with intention but inaction. If any of this sounds familiar, consider reviewing your situation with a qualified professional advisor who is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and is affiliated with a Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm. These firms have fiduciary responsibility – a high standard of care – to their clients.

While there are a many more ways a good financial advisor can help, here are 30:

A financial advisor will:

• Help you understand your needs and objectives by asking the right questions.

• Encourage you to do the things you know you