January is Financial Wellness Month, appropriately timed to the confluence of New Year's resolutions and holiday bills. It's a time to set new goals for financial freedom, moderation in spending and understanding the benefits of "paying yourself first." On Jan. 18, at 10 a.m. at Spectrum Generations Coastal Community Center, 521 Main Street in Damariscotta, discover the three simple questions you should ask yourself to assess how prepared you are to live well in retirement.

What do these questions have to do with retirement planning? A lot more than you may think. Tim Hampson from the Hanford Funds and Judy Brogden, Edward Jones financial advisor, will discuss these important factors which will help you determine your future quality of life and serve as a starting point for planning a satisfying retirement.

When it comes to planning, we're inclined to focus on accumulating assets and making sure we spend our money wisely. But while our biggest fear may be outliving our wealth, there's an even greater risk of losing our independence due to ailing health, being unable to access the big and small things that make us happy and facing a decline in the number of friends in our social network.

Planning for these contingencies is an integral part of preparing to live longer, better. To learn more, register for the workshop by calling 563-1363.  Participation fee: $5.