Return on Investment

In my world, “returns” are a big deal. The financial media is always touting the short term returns of some index or stock or commodity. No doubt, they are also sensationalizing it and making a big story out of a meaningless event. People are so focused on the short-term returns of their investments, they often lose sight of long-term goals.

While we are so caught up with investment returns, we don’t analyze ourselves with the same vigor. So, here is a question for you: what type of returns are you giving those who have invested in you? Are those who are depending on you seeing any profit for that confidence and trust? You want the best returns out of your 401k, but are you seeking maximum gains from yourself as well?

I have two parents who each sacrificed a great deal for me to have the education and upbringing I did. My siblings have both supported me and looked up to me. I had some phenomenal professors in college who went far above and beyond their job description to pour into me their knowledge and experience. I have some very elite people in my life, both friends and colleagues alike, who have pushed me to become better and to go farther. My wife has both supported me and sacrificed for me, believing in me even when I doubted myself (as it turns out, starting a Financial Planning practice at the beginning of the worst stock market crash since the Great Depression wasn’t an easy move). In short, I have a lot of people who have invested time and energy – their hearts and souls – into me. I do not want them disappointed with the return. I want them to see their contribution into me paying dividends. I have been given much, much will be required from me.

You may not have had many people in your life investing in you as I did. I am very blessed and am humbled and grateful for the friends and mentors I've had. But you do have people who believe in you and care deeply about you. many of whom sacrificed their own comfort and security so you could have more capital to work with. That capital may have been emotional, spiritual, time, talent, etc. However it happened, people have invested in you and depend on a return on their investment. Even if it’s not for them directly, your investors need to see those dividends pay out in the lives of those around you. Most of all, you must require that return from yourself. So my next question is: what must you do today in order for you to start maximizing your own returns?

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