Investing is something everyone does, whether it’s growing relationships with other people or spending your time posting on social media. For many entrepreneurs, their biggest investment comes from putting their best efforts into their business and investing in the people they work with. It takes a lot of time to make a significant profit and create authentic connections.
With so many ways to spend time, it’s easy to lose sight of the importance of investing in yourself. When we say invest in yourself, we’re not talking about shopping sprees because it makes you feel good, we’re talking about things that provide a return on investment, better known as ROI. Taking that money you were thinking about spending and investing it in something that will advance your skill set, knowledge, experience, and overall value can prove more beneficial over time.
Is Investing In Yourself Worth It?
You might be asking yourself this question. Is it important? Is it more important than investing in my business and my team members? The answer is, absolutely. If you have ever been on a plane, you have heard the flight attendants tell you to make sure you put your mask on before helping others with theirs. It’s similar to owning a business. If you don’t help yourself first, you will not be able to fully help others and run the risk of actually hurting yourself. It’s okay, and very beneficial, to be a little selfish every now and then.
Investing in yourself doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice everything. In fact, that kind of mindset is what can hold you back from being successful. It simply means letting go of the things you don’t need anymore and making room for growth. You must shift your mindset to believing that you’re capable of more than what you’re currently doing for your business and team members.
There are unlimited reasons to use the resources around you for growing. We are not saying to completely drop the ball on all other areas of your life, just like anything, it’s about finding a balance. When you begin to invest in yourself, you can find success anywhere you go.
How to Start Investing in Yourself
Now that you understand the importance of investing in yourself, where do you start? There are so many resources and tools out there to help you. We’ve compiled a few of our favorite suggestions.
Consider a Co-Working Space
Transitioning to a coworking community can be a great investment. Being in a collaborative environment with entrepreneurial spirit oozing out can be empowering and increase your ambition. By choosing to co-locate, you can find mentors, partners, and other entrepreneurs who can bring perspectives and opportunities to the table, which can then add to your personal growth.
Take an Online Course
Is there a skill you need to learn? Or a current skill you want to elevate? Then taking an online course is the perfect solution. There are different options available from quick one-skill courses, such as Facebook Ads and email marketing, on platforms like Skillshare and StackSkills. Another option is to enroll in an online program through places such as Harvard or Stanford. Most places and platforms should allow you to earn a certificate. Even if it’s just exercising your skills or staying up-to-date on current trends, it’s a great investment.
Take Care of Your Body
Whether it’s constant meetings or a tight deadline you have to meet, it’s easy to let personal health slip from your mind. Sometimes this leads to leaning too much on the convenience of fast food, skipping workouts, and missing out on a good eight hours of sleep. If you don’t prioritize taking care of your body, unhealthy habits are sure to catch up to you. Designate time for taking care of your body and it will thank you for the investment.
Network Outside of Your Community
Join organizations and attend events outside of your regular networking opportunities. Most entrepreneurs view networking as a way to advance their businesses, but they are just as important in building personal relationships. Make a list of what interests you and narrow down which networking opportunities have the most return on your personal investment. Doing so can help increase your personal reach and capacity.
Prioritize Your Mental Health
As the saying goes, your business can only function as well as you are functioning -- and you can’t be at your full potential if you are not in the right headspace. Make time each day to go out in nature, meditate, and take deep breaths. Investing time into these practices can ensure you are always feeling your best even when obstacles arise.
Find a Mentor
There’s no better way to learn and grow than from someone who’s already done what you are trying to accomplish. A mentor can help your mental, spiritual, professional, and personal development, which all matters when it comes to achieving your goals and aspirations. In fact, having the right mentor can increase your chances of success in life and business. This investment is bound to accelerate your growth.