Having vision is a key to success in any industry but perhaps especially in the financial services industry, where market events and other circumstances can affect the financial plans advisors develop with their clients. Visionary planning allows leaders and organizations to be more resilient and focused—rolling with the punches and ensuring that their actions always align with their ultimate goals.

Advisors can struggle with discovering what their clients expect from a financial plan. Many may turn to financial planning software but may be concerned about whether the results accurately reflect their clients' goals. Software is only a starting point in helping clients understand and build their financial plans. To help get clients off on the right path and truly benefit from their financial planning, take a more global view. 

The Millennial generation has a lot going for it. Raised on cutting-edge technology and social media, they consider themselves optimists with big plans for the future—they are generally confident, connected, and committed to doing meaningful work. Unfortunately, many also graduated from college with staggering debt; according to the 2014 Wells Fargo Millennial Survey, this generation's top financial concern—besides day-to-day bills—is paying off student loans. As a result, those with young children may find saving for future education expenses difficult.