In my twenties, I was focused on the expense side of the equation of net worth. So I saved everything I could. I was making really good money after I got out of the Air Force and I lived in a guy’s room for $400/month instead of renting my own apartment. All to save money. I went too far, and it affected how much I enjoyed my life. Saving, and working towards financial independence, is obviously important. But not at the expense of your happiness. I used to fret about money and constantly feel guilty about spending. But then I realized there are two sides to the equation. There is the expense side, of course. But there is also the revenue side. I realized I could increase the amount of money I made through investments and entrepreneurship. The net worth would still be there, but not by scrimping and saving every penny I could get my hands on. My mindset completely shifted. My guilt went away and, not to be too dramatic, I was liberated by the new mindset. I wish I could go back and tell my 24-year-old self this…

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