What is a fiduciary financial advisor, and is Patten Financial Group one?

Yes — as fiduciaries through our affiliation with Redhawk Wealth Advisors, Inc. (an SEC-registered Investment Adviser), we are legally required to act in your best interest at all times. We put your interests above our own, avoid conflicts of interest, disclose any potential issues, and provide accurate, thorough advice.

How do you get paid, and are you fee-only?

We operate as a fee-based fiduciary firm with transparent compensation focused on your success. This structure helps minimize conflicts and aligns our interests with yours, so you always know how and what you're being charged.

I'm not happy with my current financial advisor or wirehouse. How do I know if it's time to switch?

Common signs include: you rarely hear from your advisor outside of account statements, you're not sure exactly what you're being charged or why, your portfolio hasn't been reviewed against your current goals in over a year, you've been passed between different advisors at the same firm, or you feel like a number rather than a relationship. If any of that sounds familiar, a complimentary second-opinion conversation can help you see where you stand — with no obligation to move anything.

What's the difference between a fiduciary advisor and a wirehouse broker?

A fiduciary is legally required to act in your best interest at all times. Many wirehouse brokers, by contrast, are held only to a 'suitability' standard, meaning a recommendation only has to be reasonable for your general situation — not necessarily the best available option — and may be influenced by commissions or proprietary products. As fiduciaries, we don't have that conflict: our recommendations are based on what's best for you, and our fees are transparent.

Do you work with high-net-worth individuals, executives, and business owners?

Yes. A significant part of our practice is dedicated to executives, business owners, and pre-retirees and retirees with more complex financial pictures — including concentrated stock positions, equity compensation, business succession and exit planning, tax strategy, and estate planning coordination alongside retirement income planning.

Is switching financial advisors complicated?

It's more straightforward than most people expect. In most cases, assets transfer directly between custodians without you needing to liquidate anything, and we handle the paperwork alongside you. We'll walk you through exactly what to expect before you decide to move forward.

Financial Resolutions for 2026: Setting Achievable Goals

Jan 14

Written By Aaron Patten

As we step into 2026, the new year brings a fresh opportunity to reassess our financial habits and chart a course toward greater stability and growth. At Patten Financial Group, we’ve seen firsthand how well-crafted resolutions can transform financial futures. But let’s be honest—most New Year’s resolutions fizzle out by February. The key? Making them achievable, measurable, and aligned with your unique circumstances. In this article, we’ll guide you through setting clear financial goals for the year ahead, with practical tips to keep you on track.

Why Financial Resolutions Matter in 2026

The economic landscape is evolving rapidly. With potential shifts in interest rates, ongoing inflation pressures, and advancements in fintech, 2026 could be a pivotal year for planning your wealth. Whether you’re recovering from holiday spending or aiming for long-term milestones like buying a home in this competitive market, starting now with clear resolutions can compound your efforts over time.

Resolutions aren’t just wishful thinking; they’re actionable plans. With 46% of Americans resolving to save more money this year, financial goals are among the top priorities. While studies estimate that only 8-10% successfully achieve their New Year’s resolutions long-term, setting explicit, planned goals can significantly boost your chances. By focusing on finances, you’re investing in peace of mind—reducing stress from debt, boosting savings, and preparing for the unexpected.

Step 1: Reflect on 2025 to Build a Strong Foundation

Before diving into new goals, take stock of the past year. Ask yourself:

What worked well? Did you stick to a budget or max out your 401(k) contributions?
What didn’t? Perhaps impulse purchases derailed your savings, or unexpected expenses like home repairs caught you off guard.
How did external factors play in? In the Greater Chicagoland area, for instance, rising property taxes or commuting costs might have impacted your bottom line.

Use tools like free budgeting apps (e.g., Mint or Rocket Money) to review your 2025 transactions. This reflection helps identify patterns and sets a realistic baseline for 2026.

Step 2: Set SMART Financial Goals

To make resolutions stick, adopt the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Here are examples tailored to common financial priorities:

Debt Reduction: Instead of “pay off debt,” aim for “Pay off $5,000 in credit card debt by December 2026 by allocating $417 monthly from my budget.” This breaks it down into bite-sized steps.
Emergency Fund Building: Target “Save $3,000 in an emergency fund by June 2026, starting with $500 monthly deposits into a high-yield savings account.” In uncertain times, having 3-6 months of expenses covered is crucial.
Retirement Savings: Resolve to “Increase my IRA contributions by 10% this year, reaching $7,000 by year-end, automated through bi-weekly payroll deductions.” With potential market volatility, consistent investing leverages compound growth.
Investment Diversification: If you’re new to investing, consider setting a specific, measurable goal such as increasing diversification by adding broad-based index funds that include international exposure by March 2026. Diversification may help manage risk in a global economy.

Remember, tailor these to your life stage. Young professionals in Chicago might prioritize student loans, while families could focus on college savings via 529 plans.

Step 3: Overcome Common Pitfalls

Even the best plans face hurdles. Here’s how to sidestep them:

Overambition: Start small. If budgeting feels overwhelming, track expenses for just one week at a time.
Lack of Accountability: Share goals with a partner or join online communities. Or, schedule quarterly check-ins with a financial advisor.
Unexpected Setbacks: Build flexibility—adjust goals if life throws curveballs, like job changes or medical bills.
Motivation Dips: Use visual trackers, like progress charts, and reward milestones (e.g., a modest dinner out after hitting a savings target).

How Patten Financial Group Can Help

At Patten Financial Group, we’re committed to turning your resolutions into reality. We offer personalized planning sessions, from debt strategies to investment portfolios optimized for 2026 trends.

Ready to get started? Contact us today for a complimentary goal-setting consultation. Let’s make 2026 your most financially empowered year yet.

Investment advisory services offered through Redhawk Wealth Advisors, Inc., an SEC

Registered Investment Advisor. SEC Registration does not imply any level of skill or

understanding. Redhawk Wealth Advisors and Patten Financial Group are unaffiliated and separate legal entities.

Aaron Patten

Financial Resolutions for 2026: Setting Achievable Goals

Understanding Cash Balance Plans: A Retirement Strategy Worth Exploring

Important Year-End Planning: Strategies for Retirement, Financial, Insurance, and Tax Optimization

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