As with most other things in life, the key to achieving your long-term financial objectives is preparation. Your goal may be to fund your children' college education, protect your family during your working years, or guarantee your own retirement security. These things won't happen by accident. It's important to determine what you'd like to achieve financially and then map out a strategy that is desinged to help you meet those goals. The good news is that it's never too late to start.