We invest in the stock market. We invest in startups. Through crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe, we invest in the dreams and goals of complete strangers. But when was the last time you invested in yourself?
Investing in yourself is important for so many reasons. In the professional world, it shows your coworkers, bosses, and clients that you believe in your work, which means that they should as well. In your personal world, it helps keep you healthy, motivated to complete your goals, and balanced in a world that’s constantly pulling you in every direction.
Taking a break from the stress and demands of your busy life or the needs of the people who depend on you to focus on your own well being can feel impossible. But if you want to be there for those people who need you the most, you need to take a break. Keep reading to learn five easy ways to start investing in yourself today.
1. Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
One of the most important ways you can invest in yourself is by making your health a priority. You don’t need to be a health nut or a gym rat to achieve this important goal though. Prioritizing healthy, protein- and vitamin-rich foods, while still indulging in your favorite treats, will give you more energy without leaving you feeling too restricted.
Exercise is also important. It helps keep your weight in check, boosts your mood and energy levels, and much more. If hitting the gym isn’t your thing, take your dog for a daily walk or make small changes, like parking your car in the farthest spot at work and taking the stairs to your apartment instead of the elevator.
2. Share Your Passions
If you’ve ever struggled with something that you were eventually able to overcome, it’s time to share that with others. Helping other people conquer the same challenges that you faced in the past is a wonderful confidence boost.
For instance, if you’ve ever struggled with your health and found a solution in healthy living, you might turn your passion into a business that helps others. You could sell health products like vitamins, while also teaching your clients what they need to know to turn their own health around. The Amway money plan makes it easy for anyone to share their passions by starting their very own business.
3. Never Stop Learning
Just because your college or high school days are over doesn’t mean you should put the books away for good. Continuing your education, whether through traditional classes or on your own, is something that everyone can benefit from, regardless of your age. Learning new things helps keep our brains engaged and active.
4. Save for a Rainy Day
Over 60 percent of all Americans don’t have enough savings to cover a $1,000 emergency expense, according to a January 2019 survey by Bankrate. Not only can this be devastating for your finances if something does go wrong, but knowing that you’re unprepared can be incredibly stressful. Eliminating this weight on your shoulders by starting a savings account is a wonderful investment in your mental health.
If you aren’t in a position to set aside large chunks of your income, find small ways to save, like skipping a few cups of store-bought coffee a week or making most of your meals at home through the week.
5. Set Goals and Hold Yourself Accountable
Investing in yourself is about more than what you can do in the moment; it’s also about looking ahead. Setting goals for yourself and holding yourself accountable for doing what you can to achieve them will ensure that you’re always looking to invest in your future.
Investing in Yourself
Whether you choose to take a class and learn something new, launch your own business to help others overcome problems you’ve conquered, or choose any of the other ideas on this list, investing in yourself will leave you happier, healthier, and more fulfilled.
