At HPH Solutions, one of our core values is We over Me. It reflects our belief that financial advice is most effective when it’s built on shared understanding — between adviser and client, and within our team. It’s not about having all the answers upfront. It’s about listening, working together, and making decisions that reflect the full picture.
Surprisingly, an episode of the TV series Abbott Elementary offered a timely reminder of this value in action.
The Power of Perspective
In the episode, a teacher named Janine recognises that one of her students may be capable of more advanced work. Wanting to do the right thing, she sets up a gifted program — and invites a colleague to help run it. But as the program rolls out, Janine notices that her efforts, while well-intentioned, are leaving other students behind.
It’s not until she pauses and speaks with another colleague, Gregory, that things start to shift. He shares his own experience of feeling excluded from a gifted program in his youth — and how that shaped his self-perception. Hearing this helps Janine see the broader impact of her decision. She reworks the program, so it benefits all students, not just a select few.
The result is a better outcome for everyone — because she stepped back, sought out another perspective, and adapted her plan accordingly.
The Parallel with Financial Planning
This approach resonates strongly with how we think about financial advice.
At HPH Solutions, we don’t believe in delivering a one-size-fits-all plan. Our role is to guide, ask the right questions, and work alongside each client to design a strategy that reflects their personal, financial and lifestyle goals.
Just like Janine, we sometimes come to a conversation with ideas and experience — but we don’t assume we know what’s best. We listen carefully, consider different viewpoints, and remain open to adjusting the plan as life changes. Collaboration isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential to doing this work well.
Working Together as a Team
The value of We over Me also extends to how we operate internally. Behind every plan we deliver is a team of people who support, challenge, and learn from each other.
- We share knowledge across the business
- We seek feedback from our peers
- We work together to ensure every client benefits from the combined strength of our team
This culture of collaboration ensures that no matter who you work with at HPH Solutions, you receive advice that’s been thoughtfully considered — not just by one person, but by a group of professionals committed to doing what’s right.
A Shared Commitment
The lesson from Abbott Elementary is a simple one: better outcomes happen when we pause, listen, and stay open to change. Whether in a classroom or a client meeting, the principle holds true.
We over Me isn’t just a value we talk about. It’s how we work — with each other, and with you.
Want to check out this episode of Abbott elementary? It’s free to watch on ABC iview