Imagine this moment: you realize you hold the only winning ticket to a multi-state Powerball lottery. Do you scream, laugh, or cry? How do you celebrate? What people or causes do you fund, remember, or recognize? When do you reach out to your financial advisor?

I gained some insight into the phenomenon of "sudden money" from Susan Bradley, CFP, of the Sudden Money Institute in Florida. Ms. Bradley spoke at a recent day-long gathering of more than 160 of Colorado's top financial advisors. She asked us why such events require special care and thought by both advisor and client.

Ms. Bradley shared the stories that motivated her to learn more about sudden money. She'd seen that most widows live a low-income lifestyle, although many lived more comfortably when their spouses were alive. "What had happened? Why?" she asked. Second, she referenced the lottery winner who rapidly depletes his or her multi-million-dollar winnings by giving money to strangers and falling for scams. Why? And, she asked, what would you do differently? How can you be certain?

Consider the following "sudden money" challenges:

These financial events require their own planning disciplines. Even if you don't win (or play!) the lottery, you may find yourself in a sudden money situation. The advisors at A&I Financial work with people facing sudden money and who are accumulating wealth gradually.  We are trained to help you navigate thoughtfully toward your goals. We understand the emotional and financial sides of money - and that your thoughts and feelings must be honored and recognized.

For further reading, I recommend Susan's book, Sudden Money: Managing a Financial Windfall. Published in 2000, the book is available on Amazon and for Kindle. Pick it up, and get a taste of the fresh and innovative thinking in our profession!