Research tells us communication is the most essential ingredient for sustaining wealth across generations. But, cross-generational communication can be particularly challenging, especially within families of wealth. Each generation’s habits, beliefs, and ideals were influenced by very different experiences, traditions, and societal norms. So how do families bridge the divide? In a gathering of more than 80 women ranging in age from 21 to 91 at a weekend-long learning event, several insights and recommendations on solving the cross-generational communication emerged.
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Successfully transitioning family assets from generation to generation is hard work. And for many families, talking about money or family wealth can be awkward and uncomfortable, or simply delayed, which hinders younger generations from absorbing the critical information and know-how that is necessary for a smooth transfer of wealth and responsibilities. Some families are reluctant to discuss wealth at all because they are afraid of ruining their children's ambition. However, there are ways to encourage open discussions while being respectful of that fear.
For families engaging in strategic planning, the proverbial questions remain the same… What does the rising generation need to know? How do we deliver that? What should we expect from them? Intentional families consider these questions for years. Others, due to unexpected life events, are rushed to get the rising gen members up to speed and ready to serve. This webinar covered the basic components of a family learning program, including what important topics should be addressed at what life stage milestones.
The most problematic challenge wealthy families face is not how to make more money, but how to ensure that it lasts. This requires focusing on something other than money. Successful families, whose wealth lasts for many generations, follow five key practices.
Market research reveals that nearly 70% of intergenerational wealth transfers fail by the third generation and almost 90% by the fourth. These are compelling statistics which have become top of mind concerns for many families as they plan their wealth transition to the next generation. For Australian families, there are three key challenges they face when transitioning wealth. A closer look shows what they are doing to beat the statistics and ultimately succeed, beginning with preserving family harmony and unity.
By fostering the idea of giving from a young age, children can learn the value and joy in helping, sharing, and giving to those who have less than them. Instilling the core ideals of philanthropy in your children's lives can also help them develop a sense of purpose and self. The key is to educate and give them something to emulate.
Delivering what matters most to families includes resolving appropriate succession plans to make sure that the purpose of family intergenerational wealth is delivered. Although confronting succession issues can be unsettling, it is through facilitated discussion that options are worked through and “best-fit” solutions implemented.
As parents, you hope your kids will become safe and courteous drivers. But, it will not happen on its own. Learn the 10 things you can do to help them become safe drivers.
Posting fabulous vacation moments on Facebook—from a boat in Belize, to the top of a mountain in Chamonix—might be a fun way to share experiences with your friends, but it’s also a great way to let bad actors know your home is empty and ripe for a break-in. Similarly, broadcasting details of a college semester abroad on Instagram increases the risk of a kidnapping for ransom. With some commonsense ways, families can strengthen their digital security and help their children get smart about their social media usage.
How do you prepare next generation teens, and young adults to be responsible wealth owners? What meaningful activities can you organize to provide the training they need for their future roles as family leaders on the family council or governing board? A well planned education and communication plan for the rising generation can dramatically boost a family’s chances for producing responsible wealth owners.