(several more than originally anticipated), but always saw myself as a public servant. I left Biglaw for the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), taking a hefty salary cut but loving the idea of working for the people. The Division of Enforcement at the SEC works tirelessly for those who have been defrauded by the financial industry, and my work there opened my eyes to how shady characters in this area can be and how regular folks are in need of personal financial guidance to avoid becoming vulnerable to such schemes.

I realized I was not passionate about the practice of law, just the part that involved helping people, and I needed to get my financial house in order so I could retire from my legal career and still support my family. I achieved that goal in 2018 and left the SEC to pursue my certification as an Accredited Financial Counselor® (AFC®) — check out the 5 Money Mistakes Lawyers Make (and what to do instead) to get your own finances in order. The AFC® training and examination broadened my knowledge and experience both in the space of personal finance education and counseling. I have been working with clients on their personal financial journeys since I left the SEC and look forward to continuing to pursue the highest standards of excellence in educating and tailoring my guidance to each client’s unique situation.

but I now see how each phase fit perfectly into the grand scheme of becoming a financial coach and serving those attorneys who are ready to pursue their true passions, no matter the salary. My many years as a lawyer honed my counseling and listening skills so I can be a better ear and accountability partner for my clients. My stint at the SEC heightened my sensitivity to the shady underbelly of the financial industry and the great need for objective, unbiased guidance. My AFC® training refined my personal finance knowledge and deepened my counseling acumen. And, my own journey taught me how changing habits and planning can open up new possibilities.