Picture this: you’re sifting through an old box and out falls a note with a line you’ve heard a hundred times: ‘The best investment you can make is in yourself.’ And for a moment, it makes you pause, right? Because we’re usually so busy investing in everyone else—our jobs, families, friends—that we forget to invest in the one thing that really pays dividends over time: ourselves.
Now, let’s be honest. Investing in yourself doesn’t always come naturally. But here’s the thing: research says investing in yourself is not just valuable, it’s essential. So, let’s dive into why investing in yourself isn’t just nice to have — it’s non-negotiable. And no, you don’t have to spend a fortune or take drastic steps.
It's not selfish, it's smart
Ever feel guilty about spending time or money on yourself? You’re not alone. Many of us feel the same way, but the data shows it pays off. A Harvard Business Review study found that employees who take time to develop new skills are 32% more likely to get promoted within six months (HBR, 2022). So, if a little self-focus can boost your career, your self-confidence and your income, maybe it’s not so indulgent after all.
Think of it like upgrading your smartphone or laptop. You wouldn’t use tech from a decade ago to get the job done, so why let yourself run on outdated “you-ware”? Regular upgrades aren’t just about staying current, they’re about giving yourself every advantage, both personally and professionally.
The compound interest of learning
Here’s a story: Steven, a mid-level software engineer, was
hitting a wall at work. He knew his skills but felt he was falling behind in
emerging tech. So, he made a choice to invest in a few online AI and machine
learning courses. It took him time, money and energy, but within a year he was
promoted and making 30% more than before. One year of learning paid off for
years to come.
It’s not just Steve’s story. Studies show that personal
growth compounds over time, similar to financial investments. And with remote
learning and skill-building platforms on the rise, expanding your skill set is
easier and more affordable than ever. Knowledge, it turns out, really is power.
Start with your 'why'
A key principle in self-investment is understanding why you’re doing it. Bestselling author Simon Sinek says, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” It’s true for products and for personal growth too. It’s not just about what you’re learning but why it matters to you.
Maybe you want a promotion, or maybe you’re ready for a career change. Or maybe, like many of us in midlife, you’re just craving more meaning and purpose. Whatever the reason, knowing your ‘why’ makes it so much easier to stay motivated. Every new skill, every coaching session, every workshop isn’t just a task—it’s a step towards becoming the person you’re meant to be.
Building confidence through small wins
Here’s where the magic happens: with each skill you build or goal you meet, your confidence grows. A friend of mine had always wanted to learn public speaking but dreaded the idea of standing in front of a crowd. But she joined a local public speaking group and started practicing. After her first few tries, she didn’t just gain confidence; she felt like she’d unlocked a new side of herself.
Confidence is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets. The American Psychological Association (APA) notes that setting and achieving small goals can significantly boost self-esteem and overall life satisfaction (APA, 2022). You don’t need a life overhaul to see change—just one small step at a time.
Invest in your health - physical and mental
Investing in yourself isn’t just about skills. It’s about your entire wellbeing. Regular exercise has a profound impact on wellbeing by reducing stress, improving sleep and self-esteem, and even extending your lifespan.
But it’s not just physical health. Investing in mental health—through therapy, meditation, or even just mindfulness practices—can make a world of difference because it can decrease anxiety and depression. So consider it a two-for-one deal: taking care of your mind and body is like a supercharged investment in every area of your life.
Becoming resilient for life’s curveballs
Here’s a fact: life is unpredictable. Investing in yourself builds resilience, so you’re ready for anything. Take Dan, a former marketing exec who lost his job unexpectedly. He’d invested time in learning a side skill—freelance graphic design. When his day job disappeared, he quickly pivoted, building a freelance business that not only kept him afloat but became his new career. That’s the power of being adaptable. Investing in yourself is the best insurance policy against whatever life throws your way. You never know if and when you’ll need it.
How Midlife Crossroads Academy can help
At Midlife Crossroads Academy, we believe investing in yourself is the key to a fulfilling midlife journey. Our Transforming Midlife program offers practical tools, resources, and insights to help you reconnect with your purpose, build resilience, and create the future you want. With resources like our Midlife Toolkit ebook, you’ll gain practical tools and insights to make meaningful changes in your life.
But it’s not just about achieving ‘success.’ It’s about discovering who you are, what you value, and how you want to contribute to the world. Whether you’re looking to level up in your career, navigate a major life change, or simply find more joy, investing in yourself is the first step. And we’re here to support you every step of the way.
The bottom line: the best investment is you
So, what’s holding you back? Whether it’s learning a new skill, taking care of your health, or nurturing meaningful relationships, every step you take is a step towards a brighter future.
The best investment isn’t in the stock market, real estate, or even the latest tech gadget—it’s in you. As Warren Buffett said, “Invest in as much of yourself as you can. You are your own biggest asset by far.” Because at the end of the day, the most valuable thing you have is you. You don’t need to overhaul your life to start—you just need to start.
So go on—sign up for that course, read that book, or simply take that first small step. It’s not selfish. It’s not indulgent. It’s investing in the one thing you can never lose: you.
