Life’s Biggest Regret Solved by Millennials?

Have the millennials figured it out? Words of wisdom from the elderly says that their biggest regret in life was not taking action. Not doing what they wanted to because of fear. They say money does not matter at that point. What does matter are the memories of experiences you have had, your family, and your friends.

 

If we follow these truths, don’t the millennials have it figured out? They place experiences and happiness above all.

 

I used to be against this. I believed that investing for the long-term was the right way to live life. I used to think most millennials were idiots for focusing so much on the “now”. However, maybe they have it right. Not fully, of course. But maybe a balance of the two is important with it leaning a little more to the “now”. Maybe a 60%/40% split?

 

This brings me to several quotes that also follow this mindset:

• “If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present.” – Lao Tzu
• “Forget the past, forget the future, this moment is all. This moment has to become your prayer, your love, your life, your death, your everything. This is it. And live courageously, don’t be cowards. Don’t think of consequences; only cowards think of consequences.” – Osho
• The Dalai Lama, when asked what surprised him most about humanity, answer, “Man. Because he sacrifices his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then he dies having never really lived.” – The Dalai Lama

 

For those who don’t know me, I have anxiety. It does not show most of the time, but it is always there. I am always worried or thinking about the future. Almost everything I do, every action I take, is an investment for the future. There is nothing wrong about investing towards the future, but I am in agreement that maybe I do it too much. It has me thinking, is this really the trick to happiness?

 

Maybe it is, maybe it isn’t. Only time will tell.

Age vs Wisdom

There is a proverb that goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words”….

This may be somewhat controversial. I follow the Japanese belief that: Age is NOT the measure of Wisdom. In Japan, it is believed that awareness and knowledge are the measures of wisdom, not age. I take this to heart.

We, in America, do not think this way. We believe that with age comes wisdom. That is only half true. With age comes experience, not wisdom. Experience, when used correctly, can lead to wisdom. Those who are older, are not wiser in all aspects. They are only wiser in areas that they have experienced. In addition, that wisdom can be really shallow.

For example, a doctor that is very experienced and close to retirement in their profession is wise because of his knowledge in the field. However, that does not apply to something like social media marketing or blogging if that doctor only knows the basics of it.

Professionals in their field are professionals no matter their age. To test them on their competence, test them on their knowledge, awareness, and expertise. Do not just judge by age.

Finding a New Hobby

When my Senior asked me, “What are your hobbies? What do you like to do? What do you do on your free time?” I felt stumped. Several thoughts ran through my mind. Those thoughts included traveling, weightlifting, reading, video games, blogging, cars/automotive, and of course, finance. When she reiterated her question to find a hobby that was more unique than the generic answers, all I had was finance, cars, and that I’m learning how to code Python. In addition, I am not as passionate about cars as I once was (with my life going as fast as it is, cars are one of those things that are slowly losing steam, especially since it attracts a younger and more stupid crowd each year).

So, I basically had nothing. I know that I am not the most active outside of finance, blogging, side-hustles, and working out. I can be considered boring by many. However, even to me, this was just pitiful! It had me thinking for a while. What do I like or enjoy or want to get into….Then it hit me!

Flying! I have always liked planes. It seemed like a long shot, but it was the only thing I can think about. I started researching it and signed up to AOPA (Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association) as a student. I also remembered a prospect that I spoke to told me about flying clubs and flight schools in the area. I did a Google search and found several of them. I am currently talking to 2 of them to visit their facilities. I have decided to go for my PPL (Private Pilot License). It seems like a cool hobby and a great way to meet people.

I will keep this blog updated with my progress!

ON A SIDE NOTE: What I noticed is, I am good at a principle that Gary V preaches: Macro Patience, Micro Speed. I am in it for the long-term. I don’t get sucked into “get-rich-quick” schemes. I invest almost anything and everything for my future. I am content living quite humbly for now. I understand that I have a whole lifetime ahead of me. However, when I decide something, I am quick to act. In the Micro, I’m all about action.

Self-Awareness

What are your hobbies? Why are these your hobbies? What have you noticed about yourself concerning Self-Awareness?

New Year Commandments

Regardless of your religion. These Commandments reign true for your business, your dreams, your goals, and your hustle. Read them, understand them, and let them change the way you do business and your thought process….Make it happen in 2018. Take that leap of faith. Destroy your goals. Prove everyone wrong.

• You’re not here to fall, you’re here to rise.
• You’re not here to eat, you’re here to devour.
• You’re not here for pride, you’re here for honor.
• You’re not here to win, you’re here to fucking conquer.

 

What leaps of faith are you going to take this year?

What goals are you going to destroy?

 

Original Investing Quote