Too often I fail to invest in the things that matter (the greater things) because I’m too busy tending to the temporal things (the lesser things). And what happens when I invest in those lesser things instead of the greater things?
Read MoreWhat holds true for investing in the market holds true for my marriage. And my kids. And my spiritual life. And my creativity. But investing in these things—the things I care about most—brings growth to those areas. And when I experience growth in those areas, I’m happier. So why do I often invest my spare time in those things?
Read MoreLast week, a friend sent me this quote by the inimitable Walker Percy:
“I believe in God and the whole business but I love women best, music and science next, whiskey next, God fourth, and my fellowman hardly at all. Generally, I do as I please. A man, wrote John, who says he believes in God and does not keep his commandments is a liar. If John is right, then I am a liar. Nevertheless, I still believe.”
Am I a liar like St. Walker?
Read MoreInvesting in the things you value, the things that bring joy—this is a life of examined investment. And though Peter Lynch’s crayon maxim related to investing in stocks and bonds, doesn’t it apply to examined investment, too? The simple things—(your family, your art, your community—can’t you illustrate them with a crayon?
Read MoreThis week, I’m revisiting my list, and I’m asking you to revisit yours. As I do, I’ll explore what it looks like to live a life of examined investment. And yes, this week-long series might step on your toes a little (are any of us investing in our lives the way we should?), but rest assured, it’s stepping on mine too. So get out your gratitude list (or make one if you haven’t), and take a hard look at it in preparation for the week. Come along, and lean into a new kind of examination.
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