It has been proven that the best return on investments is the one of investing in yourself. Finding new knowledge, acquiring new skills, and developing your overall personality are just some examples of ways you can explore to develop your value as a human being further— at both personal and professional levels.
Unlike stocks that can make you lose or earn money, your own person (a.k.a. your mind) allows you to broaden your horizon, expand your potentials, and showcase your ever increasing worth to the world.
It’s never a waste of time or money to invest in yourself, no matter the source. True wealth begins inwards and emits its light outward into everything else, including the people you surround yourself with.
will.i.am (William Adams)
Take good care of your body
What’s the use of knowing so many things and being highly skilled if your body is weak or tires quickly? Self- investment starts with observing a proper diet, having enough rest and sleep, and staying active.
Okay, you can’t seem to wipe out some bad habits here and there, but remember that you are what you put in your body. Indulging once in a while may not kill you, but you need to understand what’s good and what’s bad for the body, especially your health condition.
Create goals and follow a plan
You should always have something to work for and look forward to. A dream can become a reality if you first write it down and map out steps on how to achieve it. We’re not talking about setting unrealistic goals here, but those that are reachable, tangible, and very much relevant to you.
Develop the creativity in you
Each person is unique and talented. It’s not just artists who are creative. Rather, everyone is gifted by nature. You have the power to unleash the creative side of you by exercising your mind regularly and seeking ways to learn every single day. Know what you’re good at and picture what you would love to do. Then, work from these points and search for ideas (and activities ideally) that would help you practice your creativity.
Study
It doesn’t have to mean going back to school (although this is one great way to invest in yourself). Allow yourself to participate in training, seminars or events that would teach you new or better ways and ideas that are useful. It also gives you the opportunity to meet people and share insights with then.
Get a mentor
Attending school or training is one thing, but getting a mentor is a whole new level of learning. Once you’ve identified the path or area that you’d want to explore or learn, following a mentor gives you the compass to guide you further in the right direction. Your learning journey becomes more challenging and meaningful because someone is around to give you the nudge that you need.
Stay focused and positive
Self-investment is not a passing fancy. Nor is it something to take your mind off possible boredom. As soon as you get involved in a self-developmental activity, keep in mind that you can get the most out of the time and resources you’ve put in by focusing on the desired outcome (a.k.a. a better you). Be happy and optimistic in whatever you do, and the key to having this state is “gratefulness”.
Investing in yourself guarantees a wealth of opportunities which you can very well seize with confidence. It’s an ongoing process that will give you limitless returns if you know how to use what you’ve invested.