Energy and Enthusiasm in Peachtree Corners

Energy prices are fueling discontent among the 76% of Americans who think our country is headed in the wrong direction (Gallop, 4/18/12). Democrats in the House recently joined Republicans to support the effort to expedite the Keystone XL pipeline from Canada despite the president’s veto threats. Most citizens prefer that we buy oil from friendly Canada versus hostile nations that wish us ill.

Since only 24% of those surveyed think our country is on the right track, we may assume that three-quarters of Americans are frustrated over politics at the national level. Conversely, we are encouraged by future-focused energy at the local level where we can have input and contribute to positive directions.

Located east of Dunwoody and south of Johns Creek in suburban Atlanta, Peachtree Corners became a new city on November 8, 2011. The largest city in Gwinnett County, Peachtree Corners grew out of Paul Duke’s 1960s vision of a planned community where citizens could work, play, worship, and prosper in leafy surroundings, without a long commute. Paul Duke was “green” before green was trendy!

On April 12, 2012, the newly formed (PCBA) held a sold out after-hours business-networking event [at Mambo Italiano Restaurant]. At that gathering, one could see real hope and energy based on a positive “can do” outlook, an antidote to what Peggy Noonan called “America’s Crisis of Character” in her April 21 op-ed in The Wall Street Journal.

Meeting and mingling were a number of self-employed entrepreneurs and key people from growing small firms. They reflect an encouraging trend.

Part of the discontent manifested in surveys is fear of intrusive and meddlesome government, with increased taxes, regulatory compliance complexities, and economic disincentives. But one person’s frustration, problem, or challenge, becomes the creative person’s solution-oriented business opportunity. We see that in the rise of entrepreneurial risk taking, and not just at younger ages.

As one contemplates longevity and realizes that healthy pursuits (more opportunities for entrepreneurs) may lead to increased life spans, thoughts go beyond money to passion and purpose. The “gold watch at 65” followed by 8 years of shuffleboard before death is not the preferred exit. People as early as their 40s are starting to focus on what writer Mitch Anthony calls “the new retire-mentality.” How do you build a life around passion and purpose, doing something you love that can carry you through your later years?

Sure, money is part of that, but money comes when you have focus, passion, and love what you do. Solid financial planning is de rigueur as you build a life, a career, and a company. More and more people want to work in some fashion past age 65, not only to stay active, but to keep money flowing and defer taking Social Security and the tapping of investment portfolios. In an inflationary economy, such an option is an answer to the longevity challenge.

The conversations amongst those gathered at the PCBA event at Mambo's restaurant on Peachtree Parkway gave hope that at the core there are enough energized citizens in America who will turn our country around and answer the challenges we face.

A small business is a for profit enterprise, privately owned, generally employing less than 500 to 1,500 people. Often organized as a “tax pass through” entity, a Sub-Chapter S corporation or LLC, such enterprises are the engine of job growth. Owners are wary of increased taxation which will increase burdens and restrain expansion and job creation. Nevertheless, creative tax planning is opening opportunities for accountants, lawyers, and financial advisors, themselves entrepreneurs.

In the new cities of Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Milton, Johns Creek, and Peachtree Corners, citizens are taking charge of their communities and their future. The determination to grow and prosper despite the barriers thrown up by Washington is healthy. America is alive and well in north Georgia!

Lewis J. Walker, CFP® is a financial planner and investment consultant with offices in the Forum on Peachtree Parkway in Peachtree Corners; 770-441-2603, lewisw@theinvestmentcoach.com.