Answers.com defines "a moment of clarity" as "when you suddenly get a deep understanding of some truth that's been out of reach for you. When your vision becomes unclouded and focused by a mad rush of what has been called an epiphany or revelation."
The phrase often is connected to those suffering from an addiction, but in today's world -where the "I need it now"/microwave-mentality has taken hold - I believe that recognizing moments of clarity are more important than ever. The media often refers to what is critical for today's trading session, though your financial well-being probably doesn't depend on a single day; firms market software to help you trade faster (trading faster does not necessarily mean investing better). One company even had commercials stating "Every second counts." If you're financial well being depends on what you did at 2:07:00 vs. 2:06:59, there may be larger issues to address.
The scenario is all too common. You start with an idea of how you want your life to be. After getting a job, making some money, paying some bills, spending a little, saving a little, maybe even getting married and caught up with the obligations of Life, you realize that you're not where you thought you would be and that you need help. Your moment of clarity awaits.
- Acknowledge that your current course is unmanageable, and that you need help.
- Believe that an expert - an advisor- could help.
- Hire an advisor, clarifying costs & expectations.You need to be clear on what traits you want in your advisor, and how to work with them. A title on a business card does not automatically make them right for you.
- Make a searching and fearless inventory of your beliefs, standards, & goals.
- Admit to yourself (& to your spouse, if applicable) and your advisor about how your decisions have impacted your life.
- Be open to & prepare yourself for change.
- Ask for help from the right resources as needed (for example, tax, legal, medical, etc.)
- List any person or organization to whom you have outstanding obligations.
- Eliminate any debts or obstacles, whenever possible, that may keep you from maintaining your beliefs & standards, or reaching your goals.
- Continue to monitor your beliefs and actions (personally & financially), and admit any mistakes.
- Communicate with your advisor, in the previously-agreed upon manner, to make sure you're sticking to the plan.
- Encourage others you care about to search for their own moments of clarity, and to seek advice as you have.
The above points were derived from the 12-Step Program originally published by Alcoholics Anonymous.