Meet the Class of 2019!
John Willey
Age: 39
Business: Edward Jones
Job title: Financial Planner
Why are you working in this industry? I worked in corporate finance in Dallas for over a decade after graduating from UT-Austin, then I had the opportunity to take over an Edward Jones office in Abilene in 2018. I've noticed that I have a greater sense of purpose working with families and small businesses. And I know I can add value by educating people and guiding them through their financial lives.
What are three daily habits that have helped you to become successful?
-
Exercise daily; besides the physical benefits, it can improve confidence and help mental focus
-
Get enough sleep; early to bed and early to rise make a person healthy, wealthy, and wise
-
Spend today preparing for tomorrow as much as possible; it gets the routine things out of the way, so you can better deal with life's curveballs
What is an accomplishment that shaped your career? The process to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® gave me a strong foundation of knowledge to help serve clients, and it also gave me a clearer vision for the future of my business.
What is the best advice you have ever received? Actions speak louder than words.
What was your first summer job? Sacker at Winn-Dixie grocery store
Where will we find you enjoying your hard-earned time off? One of two extremes: skiing in Colorado, or laying on a beach
If you were to give one piece of advice to someone starting out in your field what would it be? Do whatever it takes to have confidence in yourself, so others will have confidence in you too
​
​
Community Involvement:
-
Texas Exes (University of Texas at Austin alumni group) – President
-
Big Country CASA – volunteer
-
Abilene Zoo – volunteer
-
Future Fund of Abilene – Steering Committee
-
Keep Abilene Beautiful – Secretary
-
OrangeTheory - member
Family: Wife- Amy, two kids- Jacob (5) & Hannah (3), and two dogs- Emmie (15) & Marnie (12)
