As part of our ongoing series, we are going to explore the fascinating world of art collecting.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a novice looking to dip your toe in the vibrant art scene, the process of art collecting can be a deeply rewarding journey. As famous art collector Herbert Vogel once said, “You don’t have to be a Rockefeller to collect art.”

1. Start with What You Love

The first and foremost advice for beginner art collectors is simple yet profound: Start with what you love. Art is a personal journey, and there are no right or wrong choices. Trust your instincts and choose pieces that resonate with you. As Pablo Picasso said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” Let your collection be a source of joy and inspiration for you.

2. Educate Yourself

Familiarize yourself with various art styles, periods, and artists. Attend art exhibitions, galleries, auctions, and art fairs. Read art magazines and books. Watch documentaries. Take an art history course. The more you know, the more you’ll enjoy the process, and the more confident you’ll feel in your acquisitions.

3. Define Your Budget

Determine what you’re comfortable spending on art. Remember, you don’t need to break the bank to start an art collection. There are artworks available in all price ranges, and many emerging artists create fantastic pieces that are affordable. It’s important to stick to your budget and make informed decisions.

4. Seek Expert Advice

Art advisors, curators, or experienced collectors can provide invaluable guidance and insight as you start your art collection. They can help you navigate the market, avoid potential pitfalls, and discover artists or pieces you might otherwise overlook. However, the final decision should always be based on your personal taste and connection with the artwork.

5. Consider the Art’s Provenance

The artwork’s history, also known as its provenance, can significantly impact its value and your enjoyment of it. Knowing the history of ownership, exhibition history, and any available documentation can add depth and context to the artwork. Authenticity certificates or appraisals can also provide reassurance about your investment.

Beginning your journey into art collecting can be one of the most rewarding adventures of your life. Each piece you choose reflects your unique taste, personal journey, and aesthetic appreciation. It’s about more than just owning beautiful objects; it’s about being part of a conversation that spans across cultures and centuries.

At HB, our commitment to you and your family extends beyond the financial realm. Our team is here to help you and to continue serving you “Beyond the Numbers,” as we explore more ways to enrich your life experience.

To learn more or get help with your life experiences, please call 404.264.1400 or email us at info@hbwealth.com.

Download this article.

Important Disclosures

This article may not be copied, reproduced, or distributed without Homrich Berg’s prior written consent.

All information is as of date above unless otherwise disclosed.  The information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation to purchase or sell any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by Homrich Berg or its affiliates or agents. The information does not represent legal, tax, accounting, or investment advice; recipients should consult their respective advisors regarding such matters. This material may not be suitable for all investors. Neither Homrich Berg, nor any affiliates, make any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or merit of this analysis for individual use. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed. Investors are advised to consult with their investment professional about their specific financial needs and goals before making any investment decision.

©2023 Homrich Berg.

As part of our ongoing series, we are going to explore the psychology of happiness.

Happiness, often elusive and sometimes difficult to define, is a deeply personal experience that varies from individual to individual. Yet, understanding the psychology behind it can help us enhance our sense of joy and satisfaction. Gretchen Rubin, the author of “The Happiness Project” and other books on happiness says, “One of the best ways to make yourself happy is to make other people happy. One of the best ways to make other people happy is to be happy yourself.

Buy Experience, Not Things

In his book :59 Seconds: Think a Little, Change a Lot, author Richard Wiseman explains that acquiring new things tends to have a short term effect on our happiness. This can be confusing for affluent individuals since they have significant financial resources and the ability to acquire lots of things. But no matter how many things they buy, the associated joy typically fades quickly. Wiseman recommends buying experiences instead and explains why this is a more reliable path to happiness. As he says, “Want to buy happiness? Then spend your hard-earned cash on experiences. Go out for a meal. Go to a concert, movie, or the theater. Go on vacation. Go play paintball. Go bungee jumping. In fact, get involved in anything that provides an opportunity to do things with others, and then tell even more people about it afterward. When it comes to happiness, remember, it is experiences that represent really good value for the money.”

Cultivating a Positive Mindset

Adopting a positive outlook on life is crucial to experiencing happiness. Wealth allows us to enjoy the finer things in life but, often, it also gives us more things to worry about. But focusing on our strengths, celebrating small victories, and practicing gratitude can lead to a more joyful existence. Superbowl-winning coach Tony Dungy says it this way, “Be positive. Your mind is more powerful than you think. What is down in the well comes up in the bucket. Fill yourself with positive things.”

The Power of Relationships

People with a higher net worth tend to have a relatively high number of quality relationships. And this is good for our well-being because maintaining healthy relationships and social connections plays a significant role in our overall happiness. Deep, meaningful relationships can provide a sense of belonging and love, fostering our emotional well-being. As renowned psychologist and author, Dr. Robert Waldinger, says, “Good relationships keep us happier and healthier.”

The Pursuit of Goals and Purpose

Having a purpose or pursuing personal goals can give direction to our lives and contribute to a feeling of fulfillment, ultimately enhancing our happiness. According to Angela Duckworth, a psychologist known for her research on grit and self-control, “Purpose is a ‘stable and generalized intention to accomplish something that is at the same time meaningful to the self and consequential for the world beyond the self.'”

Practicing Mindfulness

Being present and fully engaged in the moment, a state known as mindfulness, has been shown to increase happiness. This makes sense because, if we are worried about what happened in the past or what the future holds, it is very difficult to enjoy the moment. Renowned mindfulness expert Thich Nhat Hanh explains, “The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.”

Caring for Physical Health

Physical health has a significant impact on our mood and overall happiness. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep are critical to our mental health and happiness. In the words of Ghandi, “It is health that is real wealth. And not pieces of gold and silver”.

Understanding the psychology of happiness is just one step in our journey towards a richer and more joyful life. As part of our mission at HB, we hope these insights help enrich your life and promote a greater sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

We look forward to continuing this journey with you in our series, and we encourage you to share with us any topics you’d like us to explore in the future.

At HB, our commitment to you and your family extends beyond the financial realm. Our team is here to help you and to continue serving you “Beyond the Numbers,” as we explore more ways to enrich your life experience.

To learn more or get help with your life experiences, please call 404.264.1400 or email us at info@hbwealth.com.

Download this article here.

Important Disclosures

This article may not be copied, reproduced, or distributed without Homrich Berg’s prior written consent.

All information is as of date above unless otherwise disclosed.  The information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation to purchase or sell any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by Homrich Berg or its affiliates or agents. The information does not represent legal, tax, accounting, or investment advice; recipients should consult their respective advisors regarding such matters. This material may not be suitable for all investors. Neither Homrich Berg, nor any affiliates, make any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or merit of this analysis for individual use. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed. Investors are advised to consult with their investment professional about their specific financial needs and goals before making any investment decision.

©2023 Homrich Berg.

By: Director, Jimmy Trimble, CFP^®

At HB, a central part of our mission is to serve as your trusted financial guide and help you find peace of mind as you navigate your financial life ahead. While the heart of what we do includes investment management and financial planning, our commitment to you goes far beyond that. Today we introduce a new series, “Beyond the Numbers”. 

This series is designed to help you live a life filled with purpose, meaning, and rich experiences. Topics in this series will include health & wellness, luxury travel, pursuing passions & interests, the “art” of leisure, fine dining, personal growth & development, the psychology of happiness, and others. We also welcome you to request specific topics of interest.

The Keys to Longevity is our first topic in this series. While most of the content below is common knowledge for many of us, we hope you will find this to be a helpful summary of some of the most important activities for living a longer, more fulfilling life. Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., a distinguished Stanford University neuroscientist and longevity expert, once said, “Age is not a disease, it’s a state to which we aspire.” Longevity is not just about adding years to life but enriching those years with health, happiness, and fulfillment. So, what are the “secrets” of longevity?

Balanced Nutrition

A balanced diet is one of the cornerstone habits of longevity. The “Blue Zones” around the world where people live notably longer, share common dietary patterns – largely plant-based, complemented by lean proteins and healthy fats. David A. Sinclair, Ph.D., a Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School and a recognized authority on aging and longevity, echoes this, saying, “What we eat, how much, and when, influences our biological age.” This link contains additional information and examples of blue zone diets.

Regular Exercise

Consistent, moderate physical activity is a key factor in promoting longevity. Activities such as walking, gardening, or dancing can significantly improve health and lifespan. Huberman encapsulates this well: “Exercise is the single best thing you can do for your brain in terms of mood, memory, and learning.” Four of the world’s leading experts on longevity share their thoughts on exercise in this article.

Mental Well-being

Our emotional and mental health significantly influences our overall health and longevity. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or finding time to unwind can make a considerable difference. One study published in “The Lancet” in 2015 found that stress-related disorders are significantly linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. By extension, activities that reduce stress – like mental breaks and relaxation – could help promote cardiovascular health and potentially increase lifespan. For guided meditation and mindfulness, try the free app Insight Timer, or these popular apps that have a modest annual fee – Headspace and Calm.

Staying Socially Engaged

Human beings thrive in social connections, and these connections can play a vital role in promoting longevity. Nurturing relationships, spending time with loved ones, and engaging in community activities can greatly enhance our lifespan. Huberman emphasizes, “The quality of our relationships determines the quality of our lives.” The Stanford Center on Longevity produced a social engagement index, demonstrating the relationship between social engagement and longer life spans.

Continuous Learning

Keeping our minds active and engaged promotes cognitive health and potentially enhances our longevity. Huberman advises, “Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections, is a lifelong process,” highlighting the significance of continuous learning. Khan Academy offers a wide range of free courses on math, science, economics, arts & humanities, and even life skills.

The pursuit of longevity isn’t just about adding more years to our life, but more life to our years. Since our commitment to you extends beyond financial guidance, we hope that “HB: Beyond the Numbers” becomes your companion guide to a life well-lived. And if there are any topics you would like us to cover in the future, please share these with your HB client service team.

At HB, our commitment to you and your family extends beyond the financial realm. Our team is here to help you and to continue serving you “Beyond the Numbers,” as we explore more ways to enrich your life experience.

Download this article here.

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To learn more or get help with your life experiences, please call 404.264.1400 or email us at info@hbwealth.com.

Important Disclosures

This article may not be copied, reproduced, or distributed without Homrich Berg’s prior written consent.

All information is as of date above unless otherwise disclosed.  The information is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation to purchase or sell any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by Homrich Berg or its affiliates or agents. The information does not represent legal, tax, accounting, or investment advice; recipients should consult their respective advisors regarding such matters. This material may not be suitable for all investors. Neither Homrich Berg, nor any affiliates, make any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or merit of this analysis for individual use. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed. Investors are advised to consult with their investment professional about their specific financial needs and goals before making any investment decision.