A
few years ago, I wrote an article titled Lessons in Poker and Life. Its basic theme
was that people should never bet more than they can afford to lose, whether in
the context of investing (especially in “sure things”) or while playing cards.

Re-reading
that article got me thinking about the computer version of Solitaire which has
been part of Windows since 1990. It was originally included in order to help
people become comfortable using a mouse to open programs, save files, etc.

Now,
after fifteen years of mousing, I use the game to allow my mind a chance to freewheel
while I’m writing an article or thinking about a problem. Even considering the
casual circumstances under which I play, I prefer to win rather than lose, so I’ve
worked out some strategies which seem to improve my scores. Regular readers may
not be surprised that I think some of them may also have application to
financial planning, so I’ll be commenting on both.

In
addition to sharing my strategies, I’d also like use this article to thank the
father of a grade school friend for his still-heeded advice. The Wards were not
great game players but Glen Grosbach helped me understand that, if I wanted to
win, I should devise and follow a strategy instead of just playing randomly.

Here
then, are some strategies to consider for Solitaire and life:

• Play in order, removing cards from the
  lower stacks on the left in order to open spaces for kings as soon as possible.

Planning works best when steps are identified
and prioritized, so issues may be addressed as efficiently as possible.

• Don't move too quickly. A move doesn’t have
  to be taken just because it’s available.
  For example, waiting might reveal a later play from the deck which would uncover
  an ace, allowing you to start a new foundation.

Waiting to make a decision allows more time
to gather and consider information, hopefully leading to a better result. Of
course, sometimes you must act but don’t be overly hasty; contemplation may
reveal a better option.

• Pay attention. There might be a move you’re
  overlooking.

Our lives are so busy that it’s tempting to
simply assume that everything’s OK. Be sure to pause every once in a while to
see if there’s an option which might have been overlooked. Even the most thorough
plan should be subject to modification after time but especially if the
situation changes.

• Know the rules. Did you know that pulling a
  card down from the deck before placing it on a foundation gives you additional
  points?

Knowing the rules is much more important in
life than in a game, especially in the case of personal finances. Be sure you understand
exactly what’s involved before taking a roll-over, cashing-out an insurance
policy or obtaining a mortgage.

• Sometimes it makes sense to take a step
  backwards. Windows Solitaire allows you to pull a card back into the game from one
  of the foundations. That might allow you play a card from the deck, uncovering
  just the card you need to win.

Many of life’s decisions are irrevocable
but it never hurts to review things to see if an option remains. For example, did
you know it’s possible to begin taking Social Security payments, then stop and
get a chance to do so again with a higher payment? The rules are tricky but
even situations which appear to be final can sometimes be modified, either
through negotiation or careful attention to the rules.

That’s
pretty much everything I know about playing Solitaire but you may be sure Warren Ward Associates has additional
resources related to investments and financial planning. We are always glad to
answer questions and look forward to helping our clients and friends.