Advocate Wealth Solutions - March 2025

Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!

YOUR FINANCIAL ADVOCATE 25 MAR

The Case for Taking a Step Back SCROLLING YOUR LIFE AWAY?

I often get asked where I find inspiration for these articles. Sometimes, the ideas come naturally. Other times, I have to dig a little deeper, let my mind wander, and see what sparks something. And this time, it hit me: March 7 is National Day of Unplugging. I’ve mentioned how I make it a habit to reread Cal Newport’s “Deep Work” each year. Another one of his books, “Digital Minimalism,” is just as impactful. Both focus on an idea that feels more relevant than ever: how to reclaim focus in an increasingly noisy world. Think about it: Twitter’s first tweet was in 2006. National Day of Unplugging started in 2009. That’s barely a three-year gap between the birth of modern social media and the realization that we needed a break from it. Since then, the digital world has exploded. We went from MySpace to Facebook to Instagram to TikTok, with each new platform demanding more of our attention in shorter and shorter bursts. As a result, our focus has been stretched thinner than ever.

I’ve started taking periodic breaks from my phone, and you know what? I come back and realize I didn’t miss anything . No life-changing updates. No earth-shattering news. Just the same recycled posts, the same clickbait headlines, and of course, a fresh batch of ads based on something I casually mentioned out loud near my phone. How often have you sat down to check something on social media, only to realize an hour has passed and you have no idea what you just spent that time doing? We’ve all been there. We scroll endlessly, consuming curated glimpses of other people’s lives while letting our own moments pass right by. Even worse, this behavior is becoming so ingrained that we hardly notice it anymore. I see it everywhere — at stoplights, in waiting rooms, even in homes where kids practically beg for their parents’ attention while Mom or Dad is glued to their screen. And hey, I’m guilty of it, too. But when you really step back and look at it, it’s a little unsettling, isn’t it? What if we used those few minutes differently instead of defaulting to scrolling? Five minutes of social media could be five minutes of mindfulness or real connection — talking to a friend, stepping outside for fresh air, or sitting in silence. The problem is social media is engineered to keep us hooked. Every swipe, like, and push notification triggers a dopamine hit, the same brain chemical associated with addiction. It’s designed to pull us in and keep us there. Breaking free takes effort, but it’s worth it. So, here’s my challenge to you (and myself): Take a break. Start small for just an hour. Put your phone down. Turn off the noise. Watch the world around you instead of the one on your screen. Who knows? You might find that the best moments aren’t happening online at all!

We’re so addicted to the constant stream of notifications, updates, and ads that we rarely stop to let our minds rest. And the truth is that our brains need that downtime. We need moments of stillness and time without digital noise and distractions to allow our thoughts to reset.

Wealth Solutions: AdvocateWealthSolutions.com | Law Office: DandBLaw.com | 1

Published by Newsletter Pro . www.NewsletterPro.com

LAURA BRAGG LITIGATION PARALEGAL STAFF SPOTLIGHT:

WHAT DO YOU DO HERE AT DUPONT AND BLUMENSTIEL? I started working here as the lead litigation paralegal in December 2022. My job is to complete intake paperwork for our clientele, supervise remote workers, and order all medical records needed for our cases. My typical workday consists of monitoring Attorney Blumenstiel’s email, as well as my own, and all our docketing emails. I also consistently check all our calendars and case dockets to ensure deadlines are properly met. WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE COMING TO WORK FOR US? I’ve worked at a few other large law firms in the Columbus area, and that

experience has prepared me well for this position. I’ve handled personal injury, probate, estate, domestic litigation, and many other types of cases. One thing most people don’t know about me is that I studied ancient history and anthropology before deciding to become a paralegal. I love archaeology and even have a tattoo in hieroglyphics. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB? My favorite part of my job is working on Vaccine Act cases. It makes me feel good to help individuals or their families be compensated for their injuries.

WE APPRECIATE YOU

WHAT HAVE WE BEEN TALKING ABOUT IN THE PODCAST?

We want to use this space to express our gratitude to the following members of the community who have recently

EPISODE 42: “What Wildfires and Political Changes Mean for Your Financial Strategy”

left us a review or have referred someone to our care. Thank you!

Judy Ross Becky Strohl Sharon Himmel Sandy H. Charles Cochran Marcus Patel

EPISODE 41: “Navigating Long-Term Care With John Broyles” EPISODE 40: “Mastering the Art of Listening With Matt Halloran”

Subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform:

2 | Wealth Solutions: 614-408-0004 | Law Office: 614-408-0529

The Secret to Financial Success Your Money Mindset

When we think about money, we think about the dollars and cents in our wallets and the numbers in our accounts. However, “money” goes beyond that — it’s about how you think and feel about it. Have you ever wondered why some people seem to build wealth easily while others struggle, even with a decent income? A lot of it comes down to mindset. How you view and handle money significantly impacts your financial success. SCARCITY VS. ABUNDANCE If you constantly feel like there’s never enough money, you might have a scarcity mindset. This can lead to hoarding cash, avoiding risks, or even missing out on opportunities because you fear losing what you have. People with this mindset often make financial decisions based on fear rather than strategy.

Alternatively, an abundance mindset focuses on growth. It’s not about reckless spending but believing money is a tool that can work for you. People who adopt this perspective tend to invest, seek opportunities, and take calculated risks, understanding that financial security comes from smart decision-making, not just penny-pinching. WHY WE SPEND (EVEN WHEN WE KNOW WE SHOULDN’T) Let’s be real — we’ve all made a purchase we regretted later. Money is emotional, and sometimes, we spend for reasons that have nothing to do with logic. The trick is recognizing your triggers. If you find yourself shopping when bored or stressed, try redirecting that energy into something else. Setting up a simple budget or giving yourself a 24-hour rule before big purchases can also help curb emotional spending.

SHORT-TERM WANTS VS. LONG-TERM GOALS One of the biggest challenges in managing money is balancing instant gratification with future goals. Many people have the mentality of “buy now, pay later,” and waiting for anything feels impossible. But here’s the thing: People who build real wealth think long-term. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your money today. Instead, it means you should be intentional. Try automating your savings and investments so they happen without you even thinking about it. That way, you’re setting yourself up for success while still saving room for fun.

SUDOKU

NOT YOUR MOM’S CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE

Inspired by AllRecipes.com

INGREDIENTS

1 (4 lb) corned beef brisket with spice packet

3 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces

3 qts water

1 tsp salt

• • •

• • •

1 onion, quartered

2 lbs red potatoes, halved 1 small head of cabbage, cut into eighths

3 carrots, cut into large chunks

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, combine corned beef, spice packet contents, water, onions, carrots, celery, and salt. Bring to a simmer (skimming off any foam on top). 2. Cover pot, reduce to low heat, and let simmer for 3 hours until meat is fork tender. 3. Add potatoes to the pot and let simmer uncovered for 30 minutes or until potatoes are al dente. 4. Add cabbage along the edges of the meat and on top. Cover and let simmer until cabbage is tender, 20–30 minutes. 5. Place meat on a cutting board and let rest for 10–15 minutes. After meat has cooled, slice against the grain. 6. Add to a large serving bowl, ladle vegetables and broth over top, and serve. DIRECTIONS

Wealth Solutions: AdvocateWealthSolutions.com | Law Office www.DandBLaw.com | 3

655 Metro Place South, Ste. 440 Dublin, OH 43017 614-408-0004 DuPontWealth.com

PR SRT FIRST-CLASS MAIL US POSTAGE PA ID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

YOUR FINANCIAL ADVOCATE A publication of Advocate Wealth Solutions, blending original and curated content, and is intended to educate the general public about investing, finance, estate planning, personal injury, and small-business issues. It is not intended to be legal or financial advice. Every situation is different. The information in this newsletter may be freely copied and distributed as long as the newsletter is copied in its entirety.

INSIDE

Breaking Free From the Digital Trap PAGE 1 Staff Spotlight: Laura Bragg, Litigation Paralegal Our Podcast Client Appreciation PAGE 2 Is Your Mindset Holding You Back From Financial Freedom? Not Your Mom’s Corned Beef and Cabbage PAGE 3 Pit Stops Along the Alaska Railroad You Can’t Miss PAGE 4

All Aboard the Alaska Railroad! WHY TRAVELING ALASKA BY TRAIN BEATS THE CRUISE SHIP

The Glacier Discovery route takes you south from Anchorage to Girdwood, Whittier, and the Spencer Glacier. Whittier is a standout destination with its sleepy charm and world- class Alaskan fish. This train provides remote access to places you can’t reach by car, making the trip a unique experience. And if you’re looking for an offbeat adventure, the Hurricane Turn and Aurora Winter trains cater to locals and intrepid travelers alike, offering stops by request and transporting you into the heart of Alaska’s untamed backcountry. With the Alaska Railroad, the journey is as memorable as the destination. Whether you’re marveling at wildlife, enjoying a sit-down meal, or booking excursions to explore iconic landmarks, every mile of track is packed with adventure.

While Alaskan cruises get all the buzz, traveling the Last Frontier by train offers an equally breathtaking — and perhaps more intimate — experience. With panoramic views, unforgettable pit stops, and access to remote regions, the Alaska Railroad delivers a journey unlike any other. Imagine gliding through the rugged wilderness in a GoldStar Dome car, where glass ceilings offer a 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks and glistening glaciers. For the adventurous, the outdoor viewing platform lets you immerse yourself in the stunning scenery while breathing in the

clean, crisp Alaskan air. Whether you choose the premium GoldStar class or the more budget-friendly Adventure Class, you’ll be awed by Alaska’s natural beauty. The Alaska Railroad operates year-round with five seasonal routes, each brimming with wonder. The Coastal Classic is any traveler’s dream, winding from Anchorage to Seward along the Turnagain Arm waterway. Highlights include spotting bald eagles and hopping on a boat at Resurrection Bay to explore Kenai Fjords National Park, famous for its orca whale sightings. For those drawn to Denali’s majesty, the Denali Star is your ticket. This flagship route connects Anchorage to Denali National Park, offering stops like Talkeetna, a charming artsy town and basecamp for climbers scaling Denali. It’s a 12-hour journey of awe- inspiring landscapes and rich history.

4 | Wealth Solutions: 614-408-0004 | Law Office: 614-408-0529

Published by Newsletter Pro . www.NewsletterPro.com

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4

dupontwealth.com

Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator