Why does anyone choose their career? It’s usually one or all of the following: pursuing an interest, making a difference, paying the bills, or a desire to better your life. For me, it was all four (just call me an overachiever)! As I wrapped my head around what I wanted to spend the rest of my life doing, I knew it had to be something that added value to others and aligned with my passions. That’s the short version, anyway.
The Long Version
How it all happened: When I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Northern Colorado, I ended up sticking around the college world a bit longer. I spent six years working with students in the financial aid department, helping them navigate the student loan process and teaching them how to handle debt. I absolutely loved getting to know each student who walked through my door and guiding them through their choices. I saw how helpful it was for these young people to have someone to talk to about major decisions and financial questions.
One of the reasons this aspect of my first career was so fulfilling was because I grew up dirt poor. I’m not talking about not having name-brand clothes or missing out on fancy vacations; I’m talking about relying on food stamps to eat each day and depending on freebies and hand-me downs for new clothes Don’t get me wrong – I had a loving home and a happy childhood, and I learned first-hand that happiness is not dependent on financial security. But it did create a drive in me to have a different story in adulthood. Beyond that, I also wanted to show others how they can become financially secure no matter what background they came from.
When my wife, Becca, and I decided to quit our jobs and move from Denver to Western Colorado, I knew I wanted to land in a field that gave me the same sense of joy and purpose. Fortuitously, I crossed paths with Kevin Sanderford, founder of Colorado West Investments, Inc., and—another long story short—I joined the team.
Fast-Forward To Today
Now, as an associate wealth advisor, I get the ultimate privilege of building relationships with our clients and instilling confidence in them as they take the necessary steps to achieve their ideal life. This is a massive understatement, but life is complex, is it not? However, your finances don’t need to be. That’s what I’m here for. I help people sift through their emotions and options and give them a clear road map so they don’t get distracted along the way. I help our clients cover every base and design long-term plans that adapt and grow as their life changes.
To up my value to clients even more, I apply what I learned from my MBA from the University of Colorado Denver and am currently working on obtaining the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation.
Yes, this career checks all my boxes, but really the best part is being both coach and cheerleader for our clients. There’s just nothing like problem-solving and streamlining a previously complicated situation and seeing the relief on people’s faces when they realize they don’t have to go it alone. I love being that advocate, that person they turn to when they know they need help, and then exceeding their expectations.
Take The Next Step
If you’re not already a client, I am always open to meeting new people and seeing how I may be able to help. Whether you’ve already started planning for the future or have yet to put strategies in place, I encourage you to reach out to our team today for a no-obligation conversation to see if we’d be a good fit for each other. Call 970-249-9882 or email michael@wealthwithapurpose.com to get started.
About Michael
Michael Murphy is an associate wealth advisor at Colorado West Investments Inc., a wealth management firm committed to providing exceptional, comprehensive financial services to highnet-worth individuals, business owners, and retirees. Michael is known for building strong relationships with his clients, helping them clarify their goals and values, and partnering with them to design a financial road map that will help them work toward their ideal life. He is passionate about walking his clients through the financial planning process and seeing the confidence and relief on his clients’ faces as a result. Michael has a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Northern Colorado and an MBA from the University of Colorado Denver. When he’s not in the office, you can find him outside, likely hiking or mountain biking, or digging into a book. Michael and his wife, Becca, have 6 dogs at home. Becca runs a dog training and boarding facility. To learn more about Michael, connect with him onLinkedIn.
*Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Colorado West Investments, Inc. A registered investment advisor. Colorado West Investments, Inc. is a separate entity from LPL Financial