Eric: I'm going to do a presentation about self investment. A working person invest in self development through attending part-time courses, which can be for work or personal interests.
Me: I see. Instead of the commonly known financial investment, we invest in ourselves for a better future.
Eric: (busy applying face cream) Yeah.
Me: That's exactly what you're doing. Invest in face cream for a nice complexion!
Eric: (making a face) That's not exactly what I mean!
Me: It's a good example though. Haha...
Anyway, I spent some time putting my thoughts together. Enjoy reading!
Why do we invest? What's the purpose of making an investment? For most of us, financial investment is the first thing that comes into mind when someone mentions about the term "investment." Here is the definition of "invest" from the online FreeDictionary that fits into this context: to commit (money or capital) in order to gain a financial return. More often than not, investments are made to ensure a secured life and a brighter future. We invest in the stock markets, mutual funds, bonds, properties etc. The ultimate goal is simply a rewarding return (the higher the merrier) in the future. We reap the benefits of investments and hopefully, have a comfortable life when we retire.
Despite the advantages of financial investment, how many of us actually thought of self investment? Well, we did it for education since young. We spent time, energy, and money in getting a good education. Then what? We should look at self investment as an act of investing in oneself for a life-long personal development. Here is another definition of the word "invest": to spend or devote for future benefits.
Self investment is a long term investment. We understand that a long-term investment in the share market takes advantage of market rebounds and generally results in superior returns. Likewise, education is not the end of the story for self investment; instead, we should develop special interests in various fields for our physical, mental, and spiritual growths, as well as to discover our inner talents.
Why do you think parents want their children to get involved in different activities, such as skating, drawing, playing piano, and swimming? It gives children the opportunities to master special skills, be it technical, social, or even management. We realized the significance of being an all-rounder and it'll only make sense that we make it happen.
What are the ways to do it? Below are a few examples:
(1) Attend part-time courses to allow personal growth. Qualification is the fundamental of a job requirement. Personal development and experience are perhaps something that would distinct between you and your co-workers. Attend various courses, seminars, and workshops. Be initiative, innovative, and creative, in order to stand out from the crowd.
(2) Reading. Invest some money and time in good reading materials, whether they're for general interests, study, or work-related. Reading is a great way for self-enhancement. It stimulates new ideas and build new perspectives that we can put into practice in life.
(3) Sports. Staying active is an excellent way to promote physical health and wellness. Brisk walking, biking, skiing, hiking etc. You name it! Get involved in your favourite sports.
(4) Traveling. It helps to broaden our horizons and allows relaxation.
(5) Build a social network. Spend quality time with family and friends. Strong relationships offer strong support in our endeavours. Share experiences in life and learn from others' mistakes. A mistake made is a lesson learned.
Basically, it can be anything beneficial that we enjoy doing. Learning a new language, knitting, cross-stitching, designing and much more. Getting ourselves involved in activities other than studies and work. We need a variety of learning experience to stay upbeat and keep up with the changes in everyday life.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
~ Romans 12:2 a & b (NIV)
Decision is in our hands. Be motivated to invest in ourselves as the harvest is bountiful. It's never too late to start investing now. Invest in yourself, and find the greatest treasure in you that brings forth a fulfilling future. Below is a famous quote about investment in knowledge:
"If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it away from him. An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest."
~ Benjamin Franklin
No comments:
Post a Comment