Back in the early 2000’s around 03’or ’04 I decided to set aside some money each month and invest it in a Vanguard S&P 500 brokerage account. I just put in on auto-pilot so that each month the funds would automatically be deposited in the account. I think I started about $100 per month. I kept doing it and and now fast forward to 2019 and this account now has a decent balance of over $135K.
Over the years I slowly increased the amount I was depositing. The moral of this story is that I was my own best friend. At the time I was looking out for my future self! As I look back now 15 years or so I just want to thank myself!
This doesn’t mean that your shouldn’t have Friends or isolate yourself. It just means that you should look for ways to more self-reliant and to do things that will lead to a better future. So here are some tips on how to be your own best friend.
Invest Early and Often
As I mentioned, do yourself a favor and build a better future for yourself by investing consistently. Put $50 or $100 a month in a S&P mutual fund if you are able to. Maybe you have to start by doing it twice a year but do this for yourself if at all possible. With a long-term view and the power of compounding you’ll be surprised at how much this will grow.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise can change your life drastically. Make time to get some physical activity in every day. the Mayo Clinic recommends 30 minutes of physical activity every day. If you consistently work out not only will you see the difference in your physical condition, more muscles, losing weight, etc you will also feel benefits mentally. Exercise has been proven to raise dopamine levels which creates feelings of pleasure and reward.
Treat Yourself
Sometime you should just splurge on yourself. Get that massage, been wanting that video game? Get it. Just don’t go overboard but every now and then you need to remember to treat yourself. You only live once so you should have some enjoyment!
Invest in Yourself
Always look for ways to continually grow and improve yourself. This could include taking an online course, going back to school, reading a self-improvement book, you name it. You will be surprised on how much these little things can change your life over time.
Praise Yourself
Don’t always wait for someone else to give you an “atta boy”. If you have done good job at something recognize your accomplishment and be proud.
Live Below Your Means
Be good to yourself and live below your means. If you are always living check to check you will be stressed constantly and you won’t have many options if you want to quit your job or the unexpected happens. I’ve posted frequently about how much I hate my job. I recently was able to quit and take a chance on a new job.
In part I was able to do this because I was able to take a risk and jump ship since if the new gig doesn’t pan out I can still provide for myself and my family. I have lived below my means for years and have paid off my house. So do yourself a massive favor and live well below your means.
These tips will have you treating yourself like someone you care about and as your own best friend in no time. Overtime you should become happier and healthier!
