It’s hard to believe Christmas is only one week away.
As I’ve mentioned before, the Christmas season starts early in our house — November 1st.
And even with the early start, it still feels like the season has flown by.
This year, my wife and I made it a point to take in as many local Christmas events as we could while the kids are still young.
Funny enough… in past years, the kids were fired up to go see the lights.
This year?
We had to bribe them with Starbucks hot chocolates just to get them out the door.
Needless to say, the free Christmas lights event got expensive quickly.
But honestly — it was worth every dollar.
Because standing there in front of that huge Christmas tree, watching the kids run around (half excited, half complaining), I had one of those quiet moments where you realize:
this is the good stuff.
Even when it’s chaotic.
Even when it’s rushed.
Even when it comes with overpriced hot chocolate.
And it reminded me of something I think all of us need as we head into the final stretch of 2025.
1. Despite the noise, most of what matters is still in our control
2025 has been a confusing year for a lot of Canadians.
Rates moved.
Headlines were relentless.
The economy sent mixed signals every week.
But zoom out, and the fundamentals that matter — family, health, friendships, community — stayed steady.
And those are the anchors that carry us through uncertainty.
The financial world may feel unpredictable.
Our values don’t have to be.
2. Opportunities never disappear — they just change shape
This year reminded us that the old financial playbook is long gone.
The people who did best were the ones who:
- stayed adaptable
- stayed curious
- owned assets that hold real value
- didn’t overreact to noise
- kept their time horizon long
Opportunity doesn’t vanish — it simply moves.
And if you’re reading these weekly emails, you’re already ahead of most people because you’re paying attention to how the game actually works now.
3. Gratitude is a strategy — not just a feeling
Here’s something you don’t hear in financial newsletters very often:
Gratitude makes you a better decision-maker.
When you’re grateful:
- your time horizon expands
- you stop comparing yourself to others
- you think more clearly
- you see opportunities instead of problems
- you avoid panic-based choices
It’s not just good for the soul.
It’s good for your finances too.
4. Thank you
Before we close out the year, I want to say this sincerely: Thank you.
Whether we worked together this year, whether you referred someone, whether you reached out for advice, or whether you simply read these emails — I appreciate you.
Writing these each week has become a highlight for me.
And I’m grateful for everyone who chooses to think differently, learn, and build financial resilience in this “new game” we’re all navigating.
My wish for you as we finish 2025
Time with the people you love.
A break from the noise.
A chance to reflect and reset.
And the clarity to make 2026 your strongest year yet — financially and personally.
And if you ever want to talk strategy — mortgages, structure, planning, or opportunities — I’m here.
Talk soon,
Vince
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season. 🎄
