Aaron C. Scott, Licensed Agent with New York Life Insurance Company

During Life Insurance Awareness Month, take action today. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time to secure your future – because the perfect time is now. Protect your loved ones and give yourself peace of mind knowing they’ll be taken care of.

Reach out to learn more about the options available to you and find a plan that fits your needs.

Having a personal trainer can be a big help if you want to stay in shape. The same is true when it comes to your financial fitness. Reach out, and together we can discuss some holistic strategies to help get your financial health in tip-top shape.

New York Life’s 2024 Career Conference truly exceeded my expectations. I learned so much about my teammates, my business and myself. I was even nominated by my cohort to speak on behalf on my team “Kicking Assets” Unforgettable experience! 🙏🏾

New York Life’s 2024 Career Conference truly exceeded my expectations. I learned so much about my teammates, my business and myself. I was even nominated by my cohort to speak on behalf on my team “Kicking Assets” Unforgettable experience! 🙏🏾

Protection when you need it most isn't a benefit you should have to live without. If you're a federal employee, you may have noticed a recent reduction in the benefits you receive. The good news is you have alternative options. Reach out, and I'll explain how New York Life can provide you with the coverage to secure your financial future, no matter what.

Day 2/3 Update:
The New York Life Career Conference this year has proved to be much more than just a gathering—it’s serving as the catalyst for a paradigm shift in how we view careers, leadership, and personal growth. As the world continues to evolve, so too must our approach to building meaningful and sustainable careers.

From the outset, the conference emphasized that success is no longer defined solely by titles and salaries. Instead, a new narrative emerged—one that prioritizes purpose, balance, and well-being alongside professional achievement. This shift was reflected in keynote speeches, where leaders shared stories of redefining their careers to align with personal values and the pursuit of meaningful work.

Breakout sessions delved into this new paradigm, exploring topics like "Career Resilience in a Changing World," "Integrating Personal Purpose with Professional Goals," and "Leading with Empathy and Authenticity." Attendees we've been encouraged to think beyond the conventional career ladder and consider how their work can contribute to a larger impact on society.

Top Olympic athletes' rigorous training, dedication, focus, and adaptability are key elements of financial success. Understanding their approach to finances offers valuable insights. Read more about how top-tier athletes' handle their strategies here:
https://bit.ly/3Anu1oo

If you have any questions about reaching your personal financial goals and would like to discuss your strategies, please feel free to contact me.

Black Business Month is about supporting Black-owned businesses and strengthening relationships to the communities they serve. Reach out to learn how insurance, retirement, and employee benefit strategies can give your business and employees a helping hand.

Day 1 of the 2024 New York Life Career Conference in Dallas. Already proving to be a once in a lifetime experience.
S/N: It's about a thousand degrees in Texas.

New York Life launched a $1 billion impact investment initiative to help promote small businesses, affordable housing, and community development in underserved communities. Click here to learn about our approach and our progress this .
https://bit.ly/46Gmtcs

**What You Focus on Is What You Get: The Power of Attention**

Our minds are incredibly powerful tools, capable of shaping our reality in ways we often underestimate. One of the most profound principles guiding this power is the idea that what you focus on is what you get. This concept, rooted in both psychological research and ancient wisdom, suggests that where we direct our attention can significantly impact our experiences, outcomes, and overall well-being.

# # # The Science Behind Focus

Psychologists have long studied the effects of attention on our thoughts and behaviors. When we focus on something—whether it's a goal, a problem, or a feeling—we activate neural pathways that make it more likely for those things to dominate our consciousness. This is known as the "selective attention" process. By honing in on specific thoughts or stimuli, we essentially train our brains to notice and respond to those things more frequently.

# # # Positive Focus

Focusing on positive aspects of life can lead to a cascade of benefits. When we concentrate on our goals, for instance, we become more motivated and resilient, increasing our chances of achieving them. Positive focus also enhances our mood and fosters a more optimistic outlook, which can improve relationships and overall life satisfaction.

# # # Negative Focus

Conversely, focusing on negative aspects can have detrimental effects. When we dwell on problems, fears, or failures, we reinforce those negative pathways in our brain. This can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and a sense of helplessness. It's a self-fulfilling cycle where negativity breeds more negativity, often obscuring opportunities and solutions.

# # # Practical Applications

1. **Set Clear Intentions:** Begin each day with a clear intention or goal. This helps direct your focus toward what you want to achieve and primes your mind to notice opportunities related to your goals.

2. **Practice Gratitude:** Regularly reflecting on what you're grateful for shifts your focus from what's lacking to what's abundant in your life, fostering a more positive mindset.

3. **Mindfulness and Meditation:** These practices train your mind to remain present and aware, reducing the tendency to ruminate on past regrets or future anxieties.

4. **Surround Yourself with Positivity:** The people and environments we engage with can significantly influence our focus. Surround yourself with supportive individuals and inspiring environments that uplift your spirits.

# # # Conclusion

The principle that what you focus on is what you get is a powerful reminder of the agency we hold over our own lives. By consciously directing our attention towards positive, constructive, and uplifting aspects, we can shape our reality in meaningful ways. Harness the power of your focus, and watch as your world transforms.

The number of young people experiencing the death of a parent or sibling is on the rise. In a recent survey by New York Life Foundation, it was shown that schoolteachers overwhelmingly agree that grief can have an adverse impact on a child’s behavior. It’s critical that these children receive support. Learn more about how New York Life is making a difference in the lives of those who are grieving.

New York Life Foundation’s 2024 State of Grief Report reveals ongoing need and growing want for holistic bereavement support in workplaces, schools, and communities. The 2024 State of Grief Report highlights not only the ongoing need, but also a growing desire, for holistic help and support for those experiencing grief in workplaces, schools, and communities.

Highlights of the San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders Awards

Community Impact: The event underscored the importance of giving back, showcasing how these young leaders are driving positive change and making a difference in their communities.

The Networking Opportunities: we had the chance to connect with some of the most influential young leaders in San Diego, fostering valuable relationships and potential collaborations.

This was more than just an event; it was a celebration of excellence, resilience, and the power of community.

**Sunset Cruise with the Oceanside Young Professionals and New York Life**
What an incredible evening! Last night, members of the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce & Oceanside Young Professionals group came together for a memorable Sunset Cruise. The picturesque views, vibrant conversations, and the perfect weather made this an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the ocean, we sailed along the coastline, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the company of fellow young professionals. This event provided a fantastic opportunity for networking, sharing ideas, and building connections in a relaxed and beautiful setting.
A huge Thank You to the for coordinating the event. @ .oceanside restaurant for catering the event, and Ernie for getting us out there & back safely. Special thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the lively discussions and positive atmosphere.
For those who couldn't make it, don’t worry! There are more exciting events planned in the near future. Stay tuned for updates and be sure to join us next time for another amazing experience.
Cheers to new friendships, professional growth, and many more adventures together!

Summer fun may be priceless for kids, but it’s increasingly costly for their parents. Some go into debt to pay off a summer; others adjust their work hours, scramble to find care, or have to deal with their children feeling left behind by peers headed to pricey summer programs.

Summer vacation is only getting more expensive for parents, with some spending thousands of dollars on camp: It's 'highway robbery' Parents told BI that they're spending thousands to send their kids to camp or other summer care.

# # # Veterans Beer Club San Diego and New York Life: Building Community and Supporting Veterans

# # # # Veterans Beer Club San Diego

The Veterans Beer Club (VBC) in San Diego is a unique and vibrant community that brings together veterans, active-duty military personnel, and supporters. Founded on the principles of camaraderie, support, and networking, the VBC provides a welcoming environment where veterans can share experiences, build professional networks, and enjoy great beer.

# # # # Mission and Activities

The VBC's mission is to foster connections among veterans and support their transition to civilian life. Regular meetups, often held at local breweries, offer a relaxed setting for veterans to unwind and engage with one another. These gatherings provide a platform for:

- **Networking:** Veterans can connect with potential employers, mentors, and fellow veterans to explore career opportunities and professional development.
- **Support:** The club offers a supportive community where veterans can share their challenges and triumphs, fostering a sense of belonging.
- **Community Engagement:** The VBC actively participates in community service projects, giving back to the local community and enhancing the public's understanding of veterans' contributions.

# # # # New York Life's Involvement

New York Life, a leading life insurance company, has recognized the value of supporting veterans and has actively partnered with the VBC. This collaboration highlights New York Life's commitment to community engagement and veteran support.

# # # # Why New York Life Supports the VBC

- **Shared Values:** Both organizations value integrity, service, and community, making the partnership a natural fit.
- **Career Opportunities:** New York Life offers veterans career opportunities in financial services, providing meaningful employment and a chance to continue serving their communities in a new capacity.
- **Financial Education:** Through workshops and seminars, New York Life helps veterans and their families understand financial planning, insurance, and investment strategies, empowering them to secure their financial futures.

# # # # Impact on the Veteran Community

The partnership between the Veterans Beer Club San Diego and New York Life has had a significant impact on the veteran community. By combining social support with professional opportunities and financial education, this collaboration addresses several key areas of need for veterans transitioning to civilian life.

# # # # Testimonials

Veterans who have participated in VBC events and engaged with New York Life representatives often speak highly of the experience:

- **John D., U.S. Navy Veteran:** "The Veterans Beer Club has been a game-changer for me. I've met incredible people, found job opportunities, and learned so much about managing my finances."
- **Sarah M., U.S. Marine Corps Veteran:** "New York Life's commitment to veterans is evident in everything they do. Their workshops have been invaluable in helping me plan for my future."

# # # # Looking Ahead

As the Veterans Beer Club San Diego continues to grow and thrive, its partnership with New York Life serves as a model for how organizations can support veterans in meaningful and impactful ways. Together, they are building a stronger, more connected veteran community, one beer at a time.

For more information about the Veterans Beer Club San Diego and upcoming events, visit their [website](https://veteransbeerclub.com). To learn more about career opportunities and financial services offered by New York Life, visit [New York Life's website](https://www.newyorklife.com).

I was notified this week that I qualified for the 2024 NYL Career Conference as one of the Top 250 New Organization Agents in the country after only 9 months in business.
I am truly humbled by this opportunity and needed to take a moment to thank my clients, family and friends for your support, prayers and referrals as I continue to grow my practice. The best is yet to come!

My friend/mentor Megan Ward was also selected as one of the best professionals in the state by Forbes Top Financial Security Professionals for California.

Mortgage rates have risen, making home affordability more challenging, but many continue to buy. If you’re looking for a new house, it's crucial to maximize your finances. Here are some tips to reduce the impact of high interest rates on your wallet and monthly payment.
If you have questions about personal finances and buying a home, please feel free to contact me.
https://nyl.co/46gu0OQ

Networking at the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce is more than just exchanging business cards; it’s about creating lasting relationships that can support and sustain your business growth. By actively participating, leveraging resources, and building authentic connections, you can turn your Chamber membership into a powerful tool for success.

**Harnessing the Power of Self-Talk**

Self-talk, the internal dialogue we maintain, can significantly influence our mood, behavior, and overall mental well-being. This inner voice can either uplift and empower us or contribute to self-doubt and negativity. Here’s how to harness the power of self-talk to create a more positive and productive mindset:

# # # 1. **Awareness is Key**
- **Identify Negative Patterns:** Pay attention to your self-talk. Are you frequently critical or pessimistic? Recognizing these patterns is the first step to changing them.
- **Journal Your Thoughts:** Writing down your thoughts can help you see recurring negative themes and understand their triggers.

# # # 2. **Challenge Negative Thoughts**
- **Question the Validity:** Ask yourself if these negative thoughts are based on facts or assumptions. Often, they are exaggerated or unfounded.
- **Reframe the Situation:** Instead of thinking, "I always mess up," try, "I made a mistake, but I can learn from it."

# # # 3. **Cultivate Positive Self-Talk**
- **Use Affirmations:** Start your day with positive statements like "I am capable," "I am resilient," or "I am worthy of success."
- **Focus on Strengths:** Remind yourself of your achievements and skills. Celebrate small victories to build confidence.

# # # 4. **Practice Self-Compassion**
- **Be Kind to Yourself:** Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Everyone makes mistakes, and it’s part of the growth process.
- **Acknowledge Your Efforts:** Even if things don’t go as planned, recognize the effort you put in and the progress you’ve made.

# # # 5. **Develop Healthy Habits**
- **Mindfulness and Meditation:** These practices can help you become more aware of your thoughts and develop a more balanced perspective.
- **Surround Yourself with Positivity:** Spend time with people who uplift and support you. Engage in activities that make you happy and fulfilled.

# # # 6. **Seek Professional Help if Needed**
- If negative self-talk is overwhelming and affecting your daily life, consider speaking with a therapist. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in addressing and changing harmful thought patterns.

By actively managing your self-talk, you can shift from self-criticism to self-empowerment. This positive inner dialogue can enhance your mental health, boost your self-esteem, and lead to a more fulfilling life. Start today by becoming aware of your self-talk and making small, intentional changes toward a more supportive and compassionate inner voice.

If you’re planning to retire in the next few years, it’s important to be prepared. Taking steps now to manage your finances can help you enjoy your golden years with fewer concerns. Here’s a great article with five tips to make your retirement a little sweeter.
If you have questions about reaching your retirement goals, please feel free to contact me.
https://bit.ly/3Y16vas

**The Return on Investment (ROI) of Life: Maximizing Your Personal and Professional Gains**

Return on Investment (ROI) is a common concept in finance and business, used to measure the profitability of investments. However, the principles of ROI can also be applied to our lives. By evaluating the ROI of our time, energy, and resources, we can make more intentional decisions that enhance our personal and professional growth.

# # # What is Life ROI?

Life ROI involves assessing the returns we get from the investments we make in various aspects of our lives, such as relationships, education, health, and career. It’s about finding balance and ensuring that our efforts lead to meaningful and fulfilling outcomes.

# # # Key Areas of Life ROI

1. **Education and Learning**
- **Investment**: Time, money, and effort spent on acquiring knowledge and skills.
- **Returns**: Improved career opportunities, personal growth, and intellectual satisfaction. Lifelong learning can lead to higher income, job stability, and a deeper understanding of the world.

2. **Health and Well-being**
- **Investment**: Time and money spent on exercise, healthy eating, and mental health.
- **Returns**: Increased energy, longer lifespan, and enhanced quality of life. Good health allows you to be more productive and enjoy your accomplishments.

3. **Relationships**
- **Investment**: Time, emotional energy, and effort put into building and maintaining relationships.
- **Returns**: Emotional support, happiness, and a sense of belonging. Strong relationships can provide a network of support and opportunities.

4. **Career and Work**
- **Investment**: Time, effort, and sometimes money spent on developing your career.
- **Returns**: Financial stability, professional fulfillment, and personal achievement. A satisfying career can lead to a sense of purpose and achievement.

5. **Personal Development**
- **Investment**: Time spent on hobbies, self-reflection, and personal projects.
- **Returns**: Increased happiness, creativity, and personal fulfillment. Engaging in activities you love can reduce stress and improve overall life satisfaction.

# # # Maximizing Life ROI

1. **Set Clear Goals**: Define what you want to achieve in each area of your life. Clear goals help you focus your efforts and measure your progress.
2. **Prioritize Wisely**: Allocate your time and resources to activities that offer the highest returns. This might mean saying no to low-value activities and focusing on what truly matters.
3. **Continuous Learning**: Keep updating your skills and knowledge. The world is constantly changing, and staying adaptable can increase your life ROI.
4. **Build Strong Relationships**: Invest time in meaningful connections. Quality relationships can provide emotional and professional support.
5. **Balance and Health**: Ensure that you maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. Neglecting your health can diminish your overall life ROI.

# # # Measuring Life ROI

Unlike financial ROI, life ROI is more qualitative and subjective. Here are some ways to assess it:

- **Reflection**: Regularly reflect on your experiences and achievements. Are you satisfied with the returns on your investments in various areas of your life?
- **Feedback**: Seek feedback from trusted friends, family, and mentors. They can provide valuable insights into how your investments are paying off.
- **Journaling**: Keep a journal to track your goals, efforts, and outcomes. This can help you see patterns and make adjustments as needed.

# # # Conclusion

Applying the concept of ROI to life encourages us to be intentional with our time, energy, and resources. By evaluating and optimizing our investments in education, health, relationships, career, and personal development, we can achieve a fulfilling and balanced life. Remember, the ultimate goal is not just financial success, but a holistic sense of well-being and satisfaction.

Do you have a dual income household? If so, be sure to see why experienced industry professionals Sophia Duffy and Steve Parrish maintain that life insurance can be an effective way to protect your loved ones—and the assets—that will make future generations more secure.

Why having life insurance is a critical piece of women’s financial strategies | New York Life Learn how women can build financial security for loved ones through ownership of life insurance, both while working and in retirement.

**Dirty Mirror Chronicles: A Journey Toward Clarity**

Life, in many ways, can be likened to looking into a mirror. When the mirror is clean, our reflection is sharp and clear, showing us exactly who we are. But often, life’s challenges, doubts, and distractions smudge this mirror, distorting our view and making it difficult to see ourselves and our path with clarity.

The “Dirty Mirror Chronicles” is a metaphorical journey through these phases of unclear reflection. Each smudge represents a story—a challenge overcome, a lesson learned, a moment of growth. It’s about those times when our vision is clouded, and we struggle to find clarity in the chaos.

Imagine waking up one day and glancing at a mirror covered in fingerprints, dust, and streaks. At first, the reflection is murky; details are obscured, and we might feel disconnected from our true selves. This is how we often feel when faced with life’s uncertainties. Our goals seem distant, our purpose unclear, and our sense of self fragmented.

But just as we can clean a dirty mirror, we can also work towards achieving clarity in our lives. This process requires patience, self-reflection, and perseverance. Each swipe of the cloth is a deliberate action to remove the grime that prevents us from seeing clearly. It’s about addressing the smudges one by one—acknowledging our fears, facing our challenges, and learning from our experiences.

Clarity doesn’t come all at once. It’s a gradual process. As we clean the mirror, bit by bit, our reflection becomes clearer. We begin to recognize ourselves again. Our goals come into focus, and our purpose shines through. The journey teaches us that clarity is not a destination but an ongoing process of self-discovery and growth.

In the end, a clean mirror doesn’t just show us who we are—it reflects the journey we’ve undertaken to get there. Every smudge we’ve wiped away is a testament to our resilience and determination. So, embrace the process. Understand that it’s okay for the mirror to get dirty; it’s a part of life. What matters is our commitment to continuously striving for clarity, to see ourselves and our path with ever-increasing lucidity.

**Dirty Mirror Chronicles: A Journey Toward Clarity**

Life, in many ways, can be likened to looking into a mirror. When the mirror is clean, our reflection is sharp and clear, showing us exactly who we are. But often, life’s challenges, doubts, and distractions smudge this mirror, distorting our view and making it difficult to see ourselves and our path with clarity.

The "Dirty Mirror Chronicles" is a metaphorical journey through these phases of unclear reflection. Each smudge represents a story—a challenge overcome, a lesson learned, a moment of growth. It's about those times when our vision is clouded, and we struggle to find clarity in the chaos.

Imagine waking up one day and glancing at a mirror covered in fingerprints, dust, and streaks. At first, the reflection is murky; details are obscured, and we might feel disconnected from our true selves. This is how we often feel when faced with life's uncertainties. Our goals seem distant, our purpose unclear, and our sense of self fragmented.

But just as we can clean a dirty mirror, we can also work towards achieving clarity in our lives. This process requires patience, self-reflection, and perseverance. Each swipe of the cloth is a deliberate action to remove the grime that prevents us from seeing clearly. It’s about addressing the smudges one by one—acknowledging our fears, facing our challenges, and learning from our experiences.

Clarity doesn’t come all at once. It’s a gradual process. As we clean the mirror, bit by bit, our reflection becomes clearer. We begin to recognize ourselves again. Our goals come into focus, and our purpose shines through. The journey of the Dirty Mirror Chronicles teaches us that clarity is not a destination but an ongoing process of self-discovery and growth.

In the end, a clean mirror doesn’t just show us who we are—it reflects the journey we've undertaken to get there. Every smudge we’ve wiped away is a testament to our resilience and determination. So, embrace the process. Understand that it’s okay for the mirror to get dirty; it’s a part of life. What matters is our commitment to continuously striving for clarity, to see ourselves and our path with ever-increasing lucidity.

The Dirty Mirror Chronicles remind us that through persistence and reflection, we can transform moments of confusion into stepping stones towards a clearer, more authentic self.

The reality is, it's never too late to work on your retirement dreams. Read this interesting article to find out more. Read about 3 general reasons you can still successfully plan for retirement, no matter when you start.
For more about information on the topics mentioned in the article and your personal retirement strategy, please feel free to contact me.
https://bit.ly/3VFY8y9

Today we celebrate Juneteenth by reflecting on the history, culture, and achievements of African Americans everywhere.

Today is a day of celebration and hope, as we reflect on the struggle for equality African Americans have faced throughout history.