Paralysis by analysis.

That’s the phrase Joe Puetz, a Prudential financial advisor, uses to describe a common obstacle many consumers face when retirement planning: information overload.

“Today, there’s so much negativity and information out there,” Puetz said. “People are scared and end up putting it off, but the longer you put it off, the worse it can be.”

To help consumers navigate retirement planning, Prudential offers Prudential Pathways, a five-part financial wellness series that covers tax strategies, investment principles, estate planning and more.

Puetz recently led a Prudential Pathways series at Blue Cross Centre. Approximately 25 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) employees attended the hour-long sessions.

“It starts out with basic financial information, like budgeting,” Puetz said. “From there, each session builds on top of the next.”

BCBSNE employee Karah Thompson attended the series and said she recommends it to others.

“The sessions are informational and a great reminder to step back and plan for a great future,” Thompson said.

Thompson said she found the fifth session, “The Journey Continues: Creating a Solid Plan for the Future” to be the most beneficial.

“Everything just seemed to come together, and I had a holistic picture of what steps I needed to take,” Thompson said. “It’s amazing that BCBSNE provided this to all employees at no cost. It was very impactful, and I appreciated the opportunity.”

Puetz said leading Prudential Pathways reminds him of the importance of financial education.

“I’ve been doing this for 15 years,” Puetz said. “Sometimes I take it for granted and think people know everything I know. After doing the presentation and fielding the questions, I see there’s a huge need for awareness.”

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