Can you keep a secret?

We all love a good secret. And this time of year is chock full of them.

Whether it’s wondering who’s on Santa’s nice list, to choosing the perfect gift for a loved one and brimming with anticipation while you wait to see their face light up as they open it, that element of surprise and reveal brings such joy during the holidays.

Now there’s research that backs up the sentiment. Below, in the New York Times article “The Quiet Thrill of Keeping a Secret,” researchers found keeping positive secrets to yourself has an energizing effect.

Similarly, the same can be said for the anticipation you can feel striving for your longer-term financial goals. Think about it: envisioning your dreams – like a secure retirement, destination vacation, or new car or home – and taking definitive steps to turn your dreams into reality ignites the same sense of excitement, just for longer.

So, this holiday season, reflect not only on the short-term secrets that will soon end but on your long-term aspirations as well. Build up and savor that excitement. And enjoy these articles selected this week to help get you there. Remember, if you’d like assistance navigating these topics or help otherwise managing your finances, don’t keep that a secret – let’s talk!