From 1 to 100, How 1% change can bring success.
We all know “Save more, Invest better, Spend less” is the solution to our financial problems. Don’t we? We need money for various reasons including for down payment for a house, children’s education and our retirement. But, we think this would require big changes in our lifestyle and hence we postpone investing.
This is because we are all creatures of habit and find it difficult to change. What if I tell you that it is no longer the case? What if I tell you that you would not be required to make a great deal of adjustment? But, would you change something as simple as 1% of your routine to get great results?
First, the story which inspired me to write this blog:
Dave Brailsford , a British cycling coach, wanted his team to win the famed Tour de France bicycle race that lasts for 21 days and covers 3500 kms. He made changes as simple as carrying comfortable pillows to hotels so that the players can rest well, making the riders wash hands regularly so that they don’t get infections. By doing this and other tiny changes he believed that his team would win the title at least in the next 5 years. He was wrong, his team won within 3 years !!. (You can read more about it here : http://jamesclear.com/
After reading this remarkable story, you would have now understood that even small marginal changes can have big impact in the long run. The best thing about it is that they can be implemented easily.
Here are some small changes you can make to win in the journey of financial freedom:
1. Start investing – Don’t wait for the perfect day, the perfect income at which you will start. But start right now, with what you have. Take the first step.
2. Keep looking for improvements – Small changes, like having auto sweep in savings account so that your balance earns a little more. Put aside 50 / 100 Rs from your purse every day separately, and invest the money every month. Keep your credit card at home and take only the necessary cash if you think you may overspend while going out. Open an investment account for your child. Your kid will be thrilled and you would be showing them practically what it is to invest and what is profit etc.,
3. Give yourself a treat : For every small improvement that you do, treat yourself with an ice-cream or snack. What is life after all with out enjoying our victories, however small!. This victory reinforces that we are on track and we will look out for more areas of improvement.
On the flip side, small mistakes compound over a period. Avoid mistakes like investing money in the “get rich quick” schemes ( MLM , Plots that will ‘assuredly’ double in value in 1 year, ‘insurance scheme’ with 20% return etc).
So, now tell me what improvements are you doing or planning to do and what mistakes you will avoid ? Would love to hear your experience.
Unravel the Sir Drave Bailsford in you. And, win your Tour De life cup!
Happy financial year 2015!
