Northwestern Mutual's annual Planning and Progress Study is out, and the results this year are very interesting. The study examines U.S. adults by generation to understand attitudes and behaviors toward money, financial decision-making, and financial security.

Given the volatility of the last year, the results reflect more uncertainty. But they also indicate that while each generation has different goals, needs, and attitudes toward money, seeking financial advice from a trusted resource is a constant.

Just as donating assets to charities while living can be gratifying to the donor and can put funds to work immediately, creating a gifting strategy that transfers assets to family and other people has similar benefits.

Wellness, in all its many facets, is increasingly becoming part of daily life.

Taking an approach that places financial wellness alongside other methods to achieve a balanced, happy life can help unite all the pieces together and can pay dividends by relieving what, for many people, is a major source of stress.

There's a lot you can do to ensure you are keeping everything moving towards your goals. The mid-year point is a good time to take stock – and then take action.

As you become successful in your career, buy a home, save, and invest, you're building knowledge and capability. But are you gaining the ability to achieve your own goals?

No matter how high your salary, successful your business is, or big the windfall – is it enough to create lasting wealth? How about generational wealth?

Times have changed. Modern lives are complicated and good estate planning is for everyone.