Best investment ever!

Have you had any good tips on good investments lately? I have one that can be the best investment you ever made: Invest in Yourself!

Why invest in yourself?

Because, in the end, you’re the only one that can control your life and your reality. The more you invest in yourself, the more flexibility, wisdom, and power you gain. The more flexible and wise you are, the faster you’ll be able to adapt and adjust to any challenge in your life and work.

When investing in yourself, you might not always get an immediate return. What I can guarantee you will get back is an improved version of yourself that will be ready to tackle and enjoy challenges and opportunities.

Like with any investment, you need to find out what will be the best “stock” for you to invest in. Therefore, think about the possible investments shared below and decide which one you need or want to focus on first. Remember that when you invest in yourself, the return on your investment is totally guaranteed.

Some possible investments

1. Lifelong learning. Your education is much more than a degree. Be committed to learning something new each day. Do research. Find seminars and workshops. Find a mentor. Hire an executive coach. Learn from the people around you. Open your mind to new ideas.
2. Reading. Find books that stretch your imagination and challenge your way of thinking. Books and specialized magazines will lead you on a path of growth and transformation. Turn off electronic distractions and immerse yourself in the words of others.
3. Relationships. Without doubt relationships can bring the best return on your investment. Can you put a price on a trusted friend, a child, a loyal spouse, a wise advisor? Yet, many times we neglect to cultivate relationships and become much poorer in the process. Take time for relationships. It certainly pays off!
4. Health. If you loose your health, money will mean nothing. Exercise, have a healthy diet, drink enough water, spend time outside in the sun and fresh air, be moderate in all you do, get enough sleep, visit your doctor regularly. Anything you do to keep healthy is a great investment.
5. Focus and Energy. Many people talk about time management. I prefer to think of managing your focus and energy. Decide every day what activities, issues, people, and tasks need your focus and energy. Don’t forget to also think about time for personal and business reflection and renovation. Then remember to savor your accomplishments.
6. Pay it forward. Invest time in the development of new talent. Share your learning and experiences with someone else. Be a mentor. Don’t forget those closest to you --children and grandchildren. Helping develop the next generation of leaders is securing your investment for the future.

These are just a few ideas on possible investments. I'm sure you can think of many more. The secret is to remember that if you invest in yourself, your ROI will exceed your expectations and your success will be phenomenal. Start investing in yourself!

Bronze sculptures in front of Frankfurt's Exchange. Photo by Logos Noesis

What do you think?

How are you investing in yourself? What past investments in yourself have given you the best "return?" Share your comments with us.

Photo: Wagner T. Cassimiro "Aranha"