My parents immigrated to America in the early 1980's with a lot of hope and optimism. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago. While we lived very modestly and didn't have much, I had more than enough - a roof over my head and caring parents.Life changed for me when I was 15; we suddenly lost my mom in a white water rafting accident and life changed very shortly after that. My dad sacrificed everything to take care of me and my little brother and he did the best that he could to raise two young children. After graduating college, I gained experience working in the corporate world for a few years, but deep down inside I didn't feel like this was going to be the path I would be on for the next 30 years. Eventually I found the intersection of my passion, skill, and opportunity in my career as a financial advisor.I got started by working 80+ hrs per week, & only having a slim chance to make it all work. It was like driving a car while fixing the engine and trying to manage the constant fear of crashing.On top of that, repeated rejection, even from close relationships which almost destroyed all my hope.I thought to myself “If I can’t even get them to meet with me, why would anyone else?”All the while I was seeing other new financial advisors drop like flies from being overwhelmed, full of anxiety, & not getting clients quick enough. It was a very intense and lonely time. Fast forward to May 2024, I have over $600M of assets under management & hundreds of clients. Even my friends who once flat out rejected me are clients of mine now. My life is no longer dominated by constant fear, scarcity & stress. Instead I’ve had time to start a family (3 beautiful children!) and grow my practice faster than ever before.Today I'm focused on investing in the things that are most important to me. I have a love for food, travel, golf, and helping fellow financial advisors maximize their potential and avoid the pitfalls along the way. Though, above all, it’s faith, family, and close friends that are the most important things in my life.I’m glad that we’ve now been able to have a proper introduction. If this struck a cord or two, I would love for you to reach out and leave a comment or message.Your newest connection,Rich