When Life Happens
Sometimes the best-laid plans go awry
If there is one thing I have learned from the many responses to my articles, it is that sometimes the unexpected happens. When it does even the best-laid plans can go awry.
Regular readers of my articles know a little of my story. I had a very successful career in the insurance business. In 2011, I was elected national president of the National Association of Health Underwriters, the professional association of insurance agents specializing in health insurance products.
To make a long story short, in 2012, at the age of 59, my business collapsed because of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Suddenly, I had to reinvent myself and do it quickly.
By 2016, my monthly income had dropped to a low of $400, and we had blown through our savings. However, my wife had heard for 33 years that, given enough time, I could find my way out of any financial challenge.
By February 2020, my income was well on the way to recovery. We were doing so well that we took a two-week vacation in Queretaro, Mexico, for our 40th wedding anniversary. As we were flying home, I promised my already-retired wife that we would take a trip once every 90 days.
My business focus was Medicare and individual health insurance, and 100% of my business…
