Your Best Investment Strategy

There has never been a better investment strategy than investing in you. As we are acutely aware today, our finances go up and down, the value of our home rises and falls, and the Dow Jones has recently moved like a jet propelled elevator. There is only one on-going investment you can make that will pay long term dividends for you and your loved ones. That investment is in you.

We are all trying to cut back expenses these days out of necessity, desire and/or fear. In addition, many are trying to save money and cut credit card use for the first time in many years. As a result, almost every industry has seen a downturn. Home and auto purchases, travel, clothing, dining out, home furnishings and others expenses are being cut back by consumers and those industries are suffering as a result of diminished consumption.

But some areas seem to be doing modestly well when compared to others. One is Education. Why? People are seeking additional training, new careers or brushing up on their skills at record levels. The community colleges and trade schools are busy, public colleges have no shortage of applicants, and many private colleges and universities report a better than expected number of applicants, although securing loans is a challenge given the current tight credit markets.

If you are unemployed, concerned about finances or living on a strict budget, try to find offerings in your community to learn new skills or enhance your current skill set. Join the local Toastmasters club to enhance your public speaking and presentation skills. Go to networking or civic group meetings in your community. Avail yourself of the resources at your town or county library. Check out a consignment shop to update your interview wardrobe. Use the community park to exercise and get fresh air and enjoy the scenery to relax you. You get the idea.

For those of you who are working or for those not working but not in financial straits, commit to dedicating time, energy and resources to enhance your skills. This can be stronger skills in your current field, new skills for a new career, a computer skills upgrade or developing your so-called “soft skills” such as public speaking, presentation skills or interviewing. And, be certain to mention these activities to prospective employers. They love candidates who are motivated to find ways to grow and development both professionally or personally.

As I said, finances and wealth will go up and down, often for reasons outside of your control. There is an ebb and flow throughout most of our adult lives. But one investment is certainly within your power and will pay the greatest dividends and the best return on the investment. And that investment is in Yourself.

Always Be Careering.

Mark