You're your own best asset.
If you find yourself browsing the business book section of the Tattered Cover you'll most likely come across titles containing words like
leadership, influence, maximize, deliver, excellence, goals, and
investment, and as someone who prefers to read the existentialist ramblings of any number of America's eloquent, pen-wielding alcoholics (not business books), these words don't really pander to me. But as my limited experience has it, I'd be lying if I said that they were devoid of any value. After all, there's a point where you have to start monetizing your passion or skills to live, and not surprisingly, experts say that investing in yourself tends to be the best investment. With that said, I want to relay a few tips we've heard that you might find helpful if you're seeking to invest in yourself.
Invest in as much of yourself as you can, you are your own biggest asset by far." -- Warren Buffet
- Work on becoming happier. It's like the saying goes: "be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." And we know you are, too, but improving your outlook can have drastic effects on your success. According to the Huffington Post's article "The Science of Positive Thinking," positive people are more likely to learn new skills, improve social intelligence, and be more creative. If you're struggling with this, try reflecting on five things you're thankful for every day. Or, try writing on a regular basis and limiting your social media time. Surround yourself with good people, make sure you exercise, talk to a mental health professional, or all of the above.
- Find a mentor, or study one, and find out exactly why you admire them. Then emulate their good qualities! When searching for a mentor, remember "character is higher than intellect" (Ralph Waldo Emerson).
- It never hurts to stay humble. The greatest leaders are also the greatest listeners.
- Use the resources you have, and strategize. Driving through the dark with no lights and no map usually takes you to the middle of a random wheat field somewhere -- and hopefully you have enough gas to get back!
- Practice financial discipline. Good budgeting, saving up a nest egg, and saving for down the road will allow you to weather life's inevitable storms. It may also allow you to pursue different jobs, passions, and directions that you might otherwise overlook. As always, it's wise to consult an expert that can help you come up with a plan.
What are your thoughts, people? Do you guys have any "invest in yourself" tips that you'd like to share? What did you do to improve your situation? We want to hear your story, so share with us in the comments below!
