When we think of a makeover, we assume a dramatic change on one’s outward appearance – face, body, makeup, and clothes. The Ottawa Makeover Project is a different kind of transformation.
One person is selected to receive enhancements in all major aspects of their life. Described as a true “life makeover” – this process helps the winner showcase how beautiful they are – both inside and out! A group of caring, community-minded professionals were brought on board to help move the recipient forward with the guidance, assistance and mentorship in the areas of financial consulting, estate planning, personal training, life coaching, meal planning, cosmetic dentistry, surgical/non-surgical facial treatments, and even a six-month lease on a new vehicle. Now in its fourth year, I am proud to be a founding partner along with Dr. Andrea Stevens, and we take these opportunities to make a real, deeper impact in someone’s life, beyond what’s just on the surface.
When Andrea first described the project to me, I immediately offered to provide financial consulting to the recipients – a “financial makeover”. When you feel financially secure, it empowers you to spend, save, and share your monetary wealth with confidence. Something I teach and implement with all my clients. If you’re financially confident, you can enjoy life’s leisure and time with those you love, and it makes room for a full life of experiences and fun. We all have a relationship with money – it ebbs and flows according to how we spend, save, and share.
The process with Susan was unique in comparison to the clients I normally work with. Her initial focus was on numbers because that is what everyone expects when they come to speak with a financial expert. I did my homework – I took inventory of what she owns, what she owes, and got a handle on her expenses – both fixed and variable.
My mission has always been to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me, so I began with asking her these fundamental questions:
- What do you want?
- What do you not want?
- What would be a bonus or positive surprise?
With time, and the evolution of consistent regular conversations, we tackled Susan’s money mindset from a practical perspective… kind of like building a house – it is crucial to have a solid foundation. Part of that is coming to terms with our relationship with money and creating a health relationship with money that will guide each life decision.
“It is hard to express how meaningful my time with Colleen O’Connell-Campbell has been! She is MUCH MORE than a financial advisor. Colleen is truly inspirational – as a business coach, as an entrepreneur, and as the kind of woman who lifts up other women. Finances are just the tip of the iceberg here.” – Susan
Ultimately, financial decisions are life decisions so we want to be thoughtful and careful with how we plan. Working with Susan was a wonderful experience for me and I look forward to watching her grow and achieve the goals she has set for herself in the future.
Want to be the next Ottawa Makeover Project recipient? Apply before October 9th, 2017 by visiting http://ottawamakeoverproject.com