While I’ve always loved learning, I’ve often failed to invest in myself. This lack of investment in myself is sad, looking back on it.
There are so many missed opportunities to grow. I dismissed the mentions of conferences as silly. I threw away audio recordings that were meant for growth.
I sucked as a young leader.
Why I Didn’t Invest In Myself
Growing up, I never felt adequate. I always felt others were better than me.
I also believed that what I thought didn’t matter.
This stunted my growth for many years. This limiting mindset held me back as I struggled to grow.
I didn’t invest in myself because I didn’t think I was worth it.
Looking back, I want to kick myself. I wasted so much time, energy, and money chasing after things that didn’t help me.
Know that it’s not too late for you. You can begin investing in yourself today.
You are worth it. You are valuable. You are able to make a difference.
How To Invest In Yourself
Much like the stock market, there are many ways you can invest in yourself. And some are riskier than others.
Unlike investing in stocks, every investment in yourself can have a payoff. It should not return void.
So, how can you invest in yourself?
You can invest in yourself by buying and reading a book a month: We live in a grand time. The printing press has made our access to printed content so easy.
We can head down to the local bookstore and pick up a copy of the latest business book. Or, if you don’t feel like getting out, order online from Amazon and have the book delivered to your door within a couple of days.
Invest in yourself by purchasing books that will help you increase your knowledge.
You can invest in yourself by attending conferences: So far, this method has to be one of my favorites. When you go to a conference, you hear from industry experts. Not only that, you have the chance to meet with similar, like-minded people who are ready to learn.
My conference of choice has been the Catalyst Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. I get so much out of the speakers who share their hearts. I also get to interact with my friends. Guys like Brian Dodd and Paul Sohn.
Rubbing shoulders with other leaders is a great way to invest in yourself.
You can invest in yourself by attending seminars/workshops: I’m doing this one for the first time starting in March. I’ll be attending a Dale Carnegie class that’s going to help me strengthen interpersonal relationships, manage stress, and handle fast-changing workplace conditions. The Dale Carnegie course will also help me become a better communicator and focused leader.
By immersing yourself in a live training environment, you’re going to improve yourself. You’re going to come out better than you were before.
Investing in yourself by going to a local class put on by a leader in your industry.
Investing in yourself won’t come naturally. You’ll feel that there’s better places to spend your money on.
You’d be wrong. You’re a valuable asset and you need to invest in yourself to become the person you’re meant to be.
Question: When’s the last time you invested in yourself? What’d that feel like? Share your story in the comment section below.
Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.