Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Investing

"You are what you eat." "You get out what you put in." "Without a struggle, there is no progress." "A penny saved is a penny earned." "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

All of these phrases a common idea of investing. Essentially, the idea that one reaps what they sow. I believe there is much truth to these ideas, and we ought focus much of our attention on our investments. We all invest. No matter whether it is intentional or not. Someone or something is always receiving your time, attention or money. So think critically of your investments. I believe it could benefit you very much to be more attentive to these details. 

I have been more critical in thinking about what is important to me. What's important to me? Well my life can answer for that. I can say that it's my family, my health, or professional success. But if my actions and life do not correlate with my expressed values, then I don't have an accurate picture of my investments. What takes up most of my attention? Where does most of my money go? What do I spend time worrying or talking about? The answers to these questions detail my investment portfolio. 

It is one thing to be aware of your investments, and another to be in control. So begin with becoming aware, then become in control. How does one control their investments? Well I believe many spend their entire careers and receive extensive educations to conclude this rhetoric. I can humbly say that it all depends on how you are looking to invest. Are you investing for a short-term growth? Or a long-term, more sustainable yield? What kind of dividends are you looking to yield? Patience? Discipline? Wisdom? Money? Relationship success? Well whatever it is, you must first look at how you treat these investments. You do this with the way in which you perceive these values, the way in which you communicate about them, and the way in which you pursue them. 

In conclusion, be aware of your investments. Be in control of your investments. And ultimately, think of ways to get the most of life by focusing on how to maximize your unique investments.