I’m no expert, but I can share with you some of the best self-investment moves I’ve made that paid off big time!
My focus right now is to be worth more to the people who need me most – namely, my daughter. Sure, my nest egg is secure in retirement plans and a few ETFs, and the risk-taker in me has delved into the cryptocurrency market with the likes of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and EOS to name a few. However, the stock market is not the only type of investment I’m making today. Here are 5 ways I invest in myself for a healthier life:
- Personal Finance: Financial stress is a biggie. Whether single, married, separated, or divorced I could not afford to ignore my money anymore. Paying off debt is the best investment you can make, and credit repair should soon follow. There are several financial gurus out there from whom I’ve learned strategies to become (almost) debt free. Just the same, I realized that the proper upkeep up on my car is essential. The better care I take of it, the better care it will take of me. Buying things I need, versus the things I want has helped me cut spending in half. The peace of mind in knowing that I will be fine in case of a rainy day is golden.
- Get Rid of Emotional Vampires: Everyone has triggers, and we all know people who pull them – you know that friend who is never happy for you, or always has something negative to say to you or about you? There are people who only call to vent about themselves (I’ve been guilty…amen). Sometimes a simple interaction can make you feel that you’ve just danced with the devil! Limit these people’s access to your valuables – heart, mind, and soul. Protect yourself in the workplace too! Do not get involved with the gossip ring. Personally, I stay away from the water cooler except to drink water! By all means, please know the differences between professional relationships and friendships. The two are not the same.
- Spiritual Peace: No matter who you pray to or what you pray to, living a spirit-filled life is essential to prosperity. I found that mindfulness helped me successfully invest in numbers 1-2 above. Mindfulness is not “Christian” but it is calming and balancing so that I can hear God’s voice (not literally), when I need direction. Another person may find spiritual peace by regularly attending church. Someone else may find peace in mission work. Whatever you do to nurture your spiritual health, make it a priority.
- Physical Health: I fail miserably at this, but I know that I cannot continue to miss the gym for months at a time, or grab a cold soda whenever I am thirsty. Cooking is better on my body and my wallet, and meal planning can help with both saving money and portion control. Skipping follow-up appointments and avoiding preventive care is hazardous to your health. In this area, I have much work to do.
- Personal Coaching: I need a little push to make sure I accomplish my goals. Sometimes we all need a little help and coaching. Therefore I believe that I owe it to myself to help steer things in the right direction. In my early 40s, I don’t have time to still be wondering what I want to be when I grow up. I have to zero-in on the things that matter most, and make the best of my current opportunities and my skill set. Everything else is secondary. Some may need to invest in mental health services just to sort out the disarray and residual pains from the past that hold them back. Whatever it takes to be the best you possible, do it.
Bonus Item: READ!!! Invest in your mind and the knowledge you possess. If you don’t like to read, listen to audiobooks. You have got to be a lifelong learner if you want to keep moving forward.
I’ll give you a few book recommendations that helped me tremendously!
A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose – Eckhert Tolle
Rich Dad – Poor Dad – Robert Kiyosaki
The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck – Mark Manson
Financial Peace Revisited – Dave Ramsey
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success – Carol Dweck
