The Curry Felendes family:
Amelia, Michelle, Hudson and Hrvoje.
By AXA’s Michelle Curry
An important passion of mine is finding ways to empower women. This is still a very male-dominated industry and it can be difficult to find your way. I’m fortunate that I have been able to find some amazing mentors in this business who have given such great advice and have protected and pushed me as I’ve found my way in this career. I want to be a role model for other female advisors and for my clients. I recently hosted a Women’s Self-Defense class because it’s important that we take empowerment beyond words. When I can be the conduit that may save someone’s life either physically or financially, I feel I’m making the most impact. I love what I do.
This business allows me to focus on my passions (obviously financial planning being one of them). I have a dance background and love being involved in the arts. I’ve served on the Ford Theatre Foundation Board for the past 4 years and I still enjoy taking dance classes to stay in shape and as a mental break from the world. This industry allows me the flexibility to “dance” passionately on the business stage and put in the hours, but also the ability to be involved in the community and give back.
My 2020 outlook
I feel like 2020 is a fresh start. It’s a new decade. We can put things behind us and move forward into the future with clear 20/20 vision (pun intended)! I’m really looking forward to the next year–I’ve set some big goals both personally and professionally.
Envision the future of the insurance industry
I heard the phrase many years ago that you need insurance if “you owe someone or you love someone.” These two things will always exist and people need guidance in creating their protection strategies. I also believe Long Term Care insurance will continue to be of greater and greater value as the population ages.
I’ve also been involved in our industry and advocacy associations. I served as the Young Advisors Team Chair for my local National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) branch for many years. I’m currently a member of the Association for Advanced Life Underwriting (AALU). It’s important that we pay attention to the laws that govern our industry and work with our local representatives to ensure they are properly informed about what is important and what best serves their constituents.
Current “Listenings”
I rarely “read” books anymore, it’s all Audible! In this business there’s a lot of driving time so to make the best use of that time I listen to books. I just finished Malcolm Gladwell’s latest, Talking to Strangers, which was very insightful. I’ve also just discovered a short, yet powerful book, Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on It, by Kamal Ravikant. I’m learning that we are all better served if we take time to really look at ourselves and treat ourselves with love and care. When you love yourself, that translates into having the ability and capacity to be our best selves with others.
Michelle A. Curry, CFP®, ChFC, CLU is a Certified Financial Planner™ Professional and Retirement Planning Specialist with AXA Advisors, LLC, in Woodland Hills. She’s been practicing for 13 years and enjoys working with families and businesses. Email: Michelle.Curry@axa-advisors.com