NAVIGATING THE GAME PLAN WITH COUPLES: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
In the world of financial planning, working with couples presents unique challenges and opportunities. A recent query from a colleague, also named Steve, highlighted some of these complexities, particularly when implementing the GAME Plan. The question revolved around how to approach the 7 Questions and Schwartz Values with couples, and the potential challenges that might arise if each partner has a different Purpose Statement. Here's an in-depth look at the question and the thoughtful response provided.
THE QUESTION
Steve's question was as follows:
"When you are delivering the GAME Plan to a couple, do you ask them both to go through the 7 Questions and Schwartz Values? If so, do you end up with two Purpose Statements, SWOT analysis? And crucially, what happens if each partner has a different Purpose Statement? Would appreciate your thoughts."
THE RESPONSE
The reply to Steve's question provided a clear and methodical approach to planning with couples:
Plan Together: Begin the process by planning the couple together, ensuring that both partners are involved.
Significant Stories System: Have them complete the Significant Stories System individually, without conferring.
Politeness and Permission: Maintain politeness and ask for permission when switching from one client to the next.
Questioning Strategy: Start with the quietest person first, and go back and forth until all questions are completed.
Single Purpose Statement: Combine both favourite futures into a single purpose statement.
The Importance of Love: Emphasise that the process can make clients fall in love and stay in love.
A Warning: Failing to follow the process could lead to negative consequences, even divorce!
CONCLUSION
The approach outlined in the response emphasises collaboration, respect, and careful consideration of both partners' perspectives. By following these guidelines, financial planners can navigate the complexities of working with couples, ensuring that both partners' values and goals are integrated into a cohesive plan.
The GAME Plan, with its focus on understanding and aligning individual values, offers a powerful framework for working with couples. By recognising and honouring the uniqueness of each partner while also finding common ground, financial planners can help couples build a shared vision for their future.