The Finish Line Group

10/10/2024

I Still Have Dark Days, But Now They Empower Me

Today is World Mental Health Day, and it’s hard to believe it’s been 12 years since I first publicly shared my battle with depression. I published an article called "How Can It Be So Dark Even on the Sunniest Days?" on Facebook.

Back then, talking about mental health wasn’t something you heard from men very often. I was nervous to hit "share," but the response shocked me. Messages flooded my inbox, thanking me for opening up. I was surprised and slightly embarrassed, but I felt relieved that I put it out there.

And I haven't stopped since that day.

We've come so far since then, but there’s still much further to go.

Over 50% of Canadians reported mental health as being their most significant concern. Yet, we still don’t talk about it enough.

I want to continue sharing my story to encourage others to do the same. It’s time to stop whispering about su***de and start having real conversations about mental health—because it’s not going away.

Share your story; it takes courage, but doing so makes it easier for the next person to tell their story. This is where the real healing begins.

Twelve years ago, I shared my mental health journey for the first time, and I was overwhelmed by the support that followed. What started as a nervous step into the unknown became a mission to keep speaking up, even as life tested me in ways I never could have imagined. Some may tire of the topic, bu

09/29/2024

I'm honoured and humbled to be invited to speak at the World Mental Health Forum, joining esteemed mental health experts from around the world. This event is a testament to the importance of collaboration and open conversation when it comes to mental health.

The World Mental Health Forum will be held virtually from October 3-10, 2024, with a week full of inspiring talks, workshops, and discussions aimed at promoting mental well-being globally. I'll be sharing my experiences, alongside 30+ incredible speakers who bring both academic and lived insights into mental health challenges.

If you're passionate about mental health or know someone who could benefit from this week-long event, I'd encourage you to attend. The forum will cover a wide range of topics, including teen stress, grief, caring for others, transforming pain into purpose, and much more.

Tickets are available here:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/eventbrite-world-mental-health-forum-october-3-10-2024-azmann-uy6qf?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via

Join us in building a global conversation for mental health and well-being. Together, we can make a difference.

This link will take you to a page that’s not on LinkedIn

08/23/2024

The Path of Grief: A Journey No Parent Should Walk Alone

Today, I find myself reflecting on a topic that's both deeply personal and universally heart-wrenching - the loss of a child. It's been nearly 9.5 years since we said goodbye to our beloved Maddie, and the weight of that loss still catches me off guard some days.

Recently, I've crossed paths with other parents who've experienced this unimaginable pain. Whether it's through depression, illness, accident, or any other cruel twist of fate, losing a child shakes the very foundation of our world. The devastation knows no bounds.

One thing I've learned on this journey is the critical importance of creating safe spaces to talk about our grief. It's not easy—for those grieving or for those trying to offer comfort—but it's necessary. We must ensure families have access to proper support—grief counselling, therapy, and, most importantly, love from their community.

Many don't realize that in those first days and weeks, when support pours in, the grieving family often finds themselves emotionally propping up others. It's a strange paradox of loss.

But the real challenge comes later. When the visits taper off, the meals stop arriving, and the phone falls silent more often, the true depth of sadness can take hold. In many ways, the months that follow a loss are the hardest to bear.

So, if you know someone who's lost a child - or any loved one - please remember this: Your support is needed most when the world has moved on, but their world is still standing still. Keep checking in. Keep showing up. Even small gestures can mean the world.

To those walking this difficult path: You're not alone. Your grief is valid, and your child's memory is precious. Be gentle with yourselves.

And to everyone else: Let's create a world where grief is met with ongoing compassion, understanding, and support. Because no parent should have to walk this road alone.

09/08/2023

September is Su***de Awareness Month

Many of you are aware we lost our 14-year-old daughter, Maddie, to su***de in April 2015.

We chose to be public about what we went through with Maddie because many parents are experiencing mental health challenges with their teens.

I wrote this 4 months after her passing. It's insane because I recall so vividly writing this.

The Maddie Project has raised millions of dollars for youth mental health initiatives.

This is the 9th year that Robert Agouri has captained the fundraiser on behalf of the Maddie Project. Robert's daughter Emily was one of Maddie's best friends.

Please consider donating to this amazing and worthwhile cause. There is a link inside. Thank you for your continued support.

***deAwarenessMonth

In loving memory of Maddie, we carry the weight of her absence every day. From cottage adventures to community support, we honor her spirit and continue the vital work of The Maddie Project, breaking the stigma around teen mental health. 🕊️💙

09/06/2023

In 1986, my parents bought our family cottage.

It's an incredibly special place filled with memories, laughter, and stories.

I'm lucky to have spent time there, strengthening my kids' and parents' bond.

But now, as cottage prices soar, passing it to the next generation means dealing with high capital gains tax, especially with the recent property value surge.

Many families face this same issue.

However, there's a potential solution that might not be as expensive as you think.

It could help us keep the cottage in the family and continue making wonderful memories.

There's an illustration inside that spells it out quite clearly.

Like our family, were you fortunate to have access to a family cottage?

Unlock the potential of your CPP Retirement Benefit to safeguard your cherished family cottage legacy. Address the challenge of capital gains tax, ensuring the property remains within the family for generations to come. Preserve the memories and traditions of this special place amid rising property

08/31/2023

If your CPP retirement benefit won't impact your retirement income, why not consider repurposing it?

To many, the CPP retirement benefit is an important part of a retiree's income, but to those who have sold their business or have done well financially, CPP may not hold the same value.

Here are some outside-the-box ideas you may want to consider with your CPP.

You are only limited by your own imagination. Imagine the possibilities and joy it could bring in your absence for years.

Unleash the potential of your CPP retirement benefit! Beyond being just income, explore 10 unique avenues to repurpose it. From funding grandchildren's education and down payments to eternal birthday gifts, entrepreneurial ventures, and charitable legacies, your CPP can shape lasting impacts on your

08/24/2023

I'm about 2 years away from being eligible to start collecting my CPP retirement benefit (that's a scary thought in itself). My business owner clients often ask me if they should start collecting their CPP at 60, 65 or 70. Perhaps the question should be, "What can I do differently with my CPP benefit?"

Imagine the following scenario in the future: It's your granddaughter's 13th birthday, and there's a knock at the door. It's a delivery service that has a package for your granddaughter. She opens the gift, and inside, there's a note that says. "Happy birthday, Love always, Grandpa Chris." Inside, there is a cheque for $10,000.

Here's the interesting part: You passed away 5 years ago.

Your granddaughter has received these cheques for the past 5 years and will continue to receive them for the next 20 years. So will every one of your grandkids. How awesome would that be?! Do you think you would be fondly remembered long after you're gone?

What if I told you this could all be done by repurposing your CPP retirement benefit?

Build an eternal bond between generations! Use your CPP benefit to create a lasting connection between grandparents and grandchildren even beyond your lifetime.

08/22/2023

Recently, I've met with some business owners who are unsure whether they should set up a or confused about why their accountants have set up a .

I was unsure what a Holdco or Family Trust would accomplish, but then again, I didn't ask many questions and just trusted the advice of our accountants.

As I became more confident as a business owner, I started scrutinizing some of our decisions.

A Holding Company can be an invaluable asset, especially as you attempt to sell your business.

Buyers of businesses want clean books. They don't want investments, cash-value life insurance and real estate clouding their financials. Chances are you don't want to part with these assets either.

If you require a Holdco, this will clarify the need.

"Discover the magic of holding companies – your business superheroes! They save money, reduce risks, and simplify transitions. Learn how to wield their power wisely for your business success. Explore the pros, cons, and talk to pros before deciding!"

08/17/2023

5 Powerful Ways AI Can Help Sell Your Business

Technology is propelling us into a new era, where AI is reshaping entire industries at an astounding pace. But we're just scratching the surface! The blend of excitement and concern surrounding AI's power is undeniable. It's a wake-up call: evolve or risk falling behind.

I'm thrilled by this evolution because it compels us to strive for excellence. Welcome to a realm where AI takes center stage in business selling! Imagine having a powerful ally that enhances every step of selling your business. AI isn't just a tool; it's a game-changer.

What are your thoughts?

https://www.thefinishlinegroup.com/blog/5-powerful-ways-ai-can-help-sell-your-business-1

Step into the future of business selling with AI! Discover how AI can revolutionize your selling journey: precise valuations, targeted marketing, streamlined deal matching, automated due diligence, and intelligent insights. Embrace AI's power for efficiency and success. Remember, while AI assists, r

08/15/2023

Imagine having to write a gut-wrenching $1 million cheque to the government.

Studies indicate that we are much more inclined to act to avoid pain versus gain pleasure.

Entrepreneurs selling their beloved businesses often grin at the thought of proceeds from their business sale, but the smile fades when that colossal payment to CRA is demanded.

Those who've stood in this enviable yet dreaded spot admit they'd do anything to rewrite history with proactive planning.

What's your pain threshold?

https://www.thefinishlinegroup.com/blog/5-reasons-to-begin-tax-planning-for-your-business-sale

Avoid being a Hail Mary Tax Planner! Discover the risks of last-minute tax planning, missed opportunities for savings, limited solutions, stress, and inflexibility. Start early, engage professionals, and develop a comprehensive tax strategy to minimize liability and secure your financial future. Tak

08/09/2023

I used to be embarrassed to say I sold life insurance.

Perhaps it goes back to that scene in Groundhog Day when Ned Ryerson approaches Bill Murray's character and smothers him with his cheesy sales approach.

Unfortunately, most people dislike life insurance. Media and movies have always painted life insurance advisors with a negative brush.

Know who values life insurance? Those who recognize its potential to slash taxes, secure legacies, amplify wealth, and support charitable endeavours.

For business owners with a negative view of life insurance, I challenge you to see how life insurance can address several things that keep us at night.

As one of my clients once said, "Chris, you make life insurance suck less". I guess I should take that as a compliment 😊

https://www.thefinishlinegroup.com/blog/reasons-business-owners-use-life-insurance

Maximize business potential through tailored life insurance: cut estate taxes, balance succession, ensure continuity, and even leverage tax efficiency. Let life insurance be your compass to navigate business complexities.

08/08/2023

As entrepreneurs, we all have our backstories.

Show me an entrepreneur, and I'll show you a story of resiliency.

I've been listening to The Storyteller's Secret by Carmine Gallo while walking to and from work the last few weeks. (I definitely recommend it)

I'm reminded that the greatest entrepreneurs of our time have had to overcome tremendous adversity to get to where they are today.

I've faced my fair share of adversity in business and life.

I've been knocked down and have not felt like getting back up, but I eventually drag myself off the canvas with a few more bruises, greater resiliency and experience.

I've talked to a few business owners lately that have felt pretty beat up. Some have questioned whether they're on the right path or not. I get it because I've been there.

Just remember that your complete story isn't written yet......and like all great stories remember that the resolution lies beyond your most formidable hurdle.

https://www.thefinishlinegroup.com/blog/the-rise-and-fall-of-my-35-million-business-a-story-of-triumph-and-tribulation

From humble beginnings to a thriving $35M enterprise, I navigated triumphs and tribulations in the office furniture industry. The 2008 crisis brought unprecedented challenges, pushing me to shut down. Now, armed with insights, I empower business owners to navigate financial complexities, protecting