What is Our Approach to Risk? (Mt. Nebo, UT)

Understanding and Choosing Risk in Financial Planning

Location: Mount Nebo, Wasatch Front, Utah

At the Summit

Hey everyone, I’m Robbie with Matterhorn Financial Planning. Today I’m at the top of Mount Nebo, the tallest peak in the Wasatch Front—those are the mountains near Salt Lake City and Park City. I'm about an hour south of there, and behind me are the Middle and South Summits, though I promise this one is the tallest.

A Fitting Topic: Risk

Today, fittingly from up here, I want to talk to you a little bit about risk—specifically:

What’s our approach to risk in life and in financial planning?

Risk and Reward

Generally speaking, the more risk you take, the more potential you have for a better return. This applies to:

-Investments: If you take more risk than just putting money into a savings account, you may have the possibility of earning a higher annual return.-

-Life decisions: Taking personal risks—like changing careers, moving cities, or stepping out of your comfort zone—might open the door to a better life experience.

Our Approach to Risk

So how do we deal with risk in our planning?

First off:

I don’t know how much risk you should or shouldn’t take—and I don’t think there’s a universal "should."

Our approach is focused on education:

-We aim to make you aware of blind spots.

-Help you understand the risks tied to each decision.

-Evaluate the potential benefits, costs, and trade-offs.

-Paint a picture of what life might look like on the other side of a decision.

Beyond the Numbers

We work through both:

-The numbers and projections

-And the softer side of life—what you’re giving up or gaining emotionally, mentally, or in lifestyle.

Every decision carries inherent bets—we want you to see those clearly.

Informed and Empowered

The goal is simple:

Help you gather enough information to make decisions about risk with clarity and confidence.

By doing that:

-You’ll know the worst-case scenario and be prepared if it happens.

-You’ll understand what you’re giving up by not taking a risk.

-You’ll feel settled—whether you decide to go for it or not.

Final Thought

Risk isn’t about what you should or shouldn’t do. It’s about knowing:

- What risks exist.

-What they mean for you personally.

-And choosing the ones you’re comfortable with.

That’s how we approach it—together.

Thanks.