By Craig Childress, CFP®
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. That’s what makes it interesting, right? Often we think the path we are on is the right one, but there may be something better for us. This is important to keep in mind when we get thrown off course and wonder why. It’s important to keep an open mind because these course changes can often work out in our favor. If we continue moving forward, having faith that things will work out for good, we might be pleasantly surprised.
For example, we may start off in one career, but our experiences might show us other areas we want to pursue or open doors to new opportunities. That’s exactly how I found my way into my career as a financial advisor.
Getting Started
Surprisingly, I did not start my career with the intention of working in the financial services industry. My path actually started in a completely different direction. I graduated from college at Hardin-Simmons University with a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies and began serving in Christian ministry. After feeling led to other opportunities and being offered a position in the insurance industry, I decided to try a new path.
Working with other advisors in the office, this quickly evolved into a passion for financial planning. I realized it wasn’t just about selling to people, it was about helping them find solutions to their problems. I was able to help others care for themselves and their families, and that’s how I knew this was the right path for me.
I first became an advisor in July of 1983 and in order to further my education and experience in this field, I eventually earned various certifications, including Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) and Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) from The American College of Financial Services. I’m also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional as of 2004.
Branching Out
In 2005, I established my own Registered Advisory Firm which is now known as Oswego Wealth Advisors. With over three decades in the financial planning industry, I believe my experience has provided the insight and understanding for how to handle life’s curveballs, something I love to share with my clients while using a personal approach to find solutions to their financial concerns.
In my current role as financial life planner, I help clients set goals, clarify their values, and design a plan that aligns their money with their values. This is all done with purpose and intention, as I desire to equip and empower the individuals and families I work with to grow toward financial freedom and a fulfilling life.
Why I Love What I Do
When I began my career in Christian ministry, what I loved most was building relationships with people by listening first and then helping find solutions to their problems based on what would truly make a difference in their lives. It was this counselor role that I found fulfilling, and that is what I still enjoy most about my current profession.
I love helping people refine their values and seeing them get excited about new opportunities in life when they have a clear path to follow with their financial life plan. It starts with just a simple discussion, which then leads to clarity and identifiable, actionable plans. Knowing that I can make a difference in the lives of others and that, in turn, will help them make a difference in others’ lives is what motivates me to continue working diligently for my clients. I believe that when your assets are aligned with your values, you manage them with purpose—and that can give you the freedom to live the life you truly want.
The Next Step
Sometimes there’s more than one way to reach your goals. But no matter which path you take, pursuing and achieving those goals is much easier when you are not alone in the process. A helpful guide and advocate can make all the difference. If you’re interested in learning more about how I serve my clients, I encourage you to contact me today for a no-obligation, get-acquainted meeting. Schedule an introductory phone call or reach out to us at 503-342-2249 or craig@oswegowealthadvisors.com.
About Craig
Craig Childress is Wealth Manager and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional at Oswego Wealth Advisors, an independent firm in Lake Oswego, Oregon, dedicated to helping their clients remove financial uncertainty so they can focus on what matters most. With over 35 years of experience, Craig employs a personal approach to help people find solutions to their financial needs and concerns, set goals, clarify their values, and design a plan that aligns their money with their values. He does everything with purpose and intention, and cares deeply about his clients and their families, desiring to equip and empower them to work toward financial freedom and a fulfilling life. As a Fiduciary, Craig puts his clients first, always, and provides transparent guidance that makes a significant difference in their lives. When he’s not serving his clients, you can find Craig attending Bible study, staying involved at River West Church, serving the community here and abroad through the Lake Oswego Rotary Club, reading, gardening, or playing his guitar. He loves spending time with his family, especially his wife, Terri, and their grown children. To learn more about Craig, connect with him on LinkedIn.
