The Best Investment You Can Ever Make

“The best investment you can make is in yourself.”? Warren Buffet

I am not a master investor.? I do not have any super secret, get rich, quick tips for you, but I can tell you about the best investment I ever made .? It wasn’t in stocks, bitcoin, real estate, or any financial product—it was in myself.

It’s the one investment I have found that guarantees to yield a lifetime of returns. When I decided to prioritize my health, professional development, and personal relationships, my life began to transform and I experienced more joy and contentment.

Wondering where to start your journey towards personal and professional growth?? I would encourage you to place investing in yourself at the top of the list. Here are 3 ways I did it and how it benefited me.

1.????? Health: Prioritizing Me So I Can Be There for Others

“Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live.” Jim Rohn

As a Black woman with young children, I’m acutely aware of the statistics on health outcomes for women who look like me. Those sobering realities pushed me to take my health seriously—not just for me, but for my family.

I began to:

• Eat healthier: I’m more intentional about nourishing my body with food that fuels me.? Do I still eat junk?? Sometimes, but my default is healthier foods.? I don’t purchase and stock my home with foods that I know are not good for me.
• Exercise regularly: Movement has become a priority, not an afterthought.? I enjoy walking!? I have also added weight training.? Find what works for you and get and stay active!?
• Prioritize sleep: Rest is no longer negotiable; it’s essential.? You will pay for lack of sleep whether you believe this or not.
• Manage my input: I monitor what I watch, read, and listen to, choosing content that uplifts and inspires.? We spend too much time taking in content that does not benefit us, our mental health or mindset!? Be careful with what you are visually and mentally ingesting.
• Be mindful of my time: I’ve become more protective of how I spend my days, making space for what truly matters.? Less social media and more time with family and friends!? This is a daily struggle but I am committed to doing it!

These changes have helped me feel stronger, more energized, and more present—not just for myself but for the people I love most.

2.????? Professional Growth: Embracing Lifelong Learning

“Once you stop learning, you start dying.”? Albert Einstein

I’ve completed two graduate degrees but I quickly realized that my education couldn’t stop after the commencement exercises!? To grow as a professional and entrepreneur, I had to adopt a growth mindset and commit to continuous learning.?

Here’s how I’ve invested in my professional development:

• Participating in trainings, certificate programs, and certifications to sharpen my skills.
• Engaging with podcasts, webinars, and thought leaders to stay informed and inspired.
• Seeking coaching and mentorship to gain new perspectives, increase self awareness and overcome challenges.
• Attending networking events, joining learning communities and professional associations to meet, learn from and connect with people who have diverse perspectives and experiences. (This is also great way to challenge your biases.)

These investments in learning have empowered me to grow in my career and as the CEO of ?my new company (#ThriveInclusively). I’ve discovered that every new thing I have learned contributes to my overall success.

3.????? Personal Growth: Cultivating Relationships That Inspire

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Prov. 27:17

Growth isn’t just about health and professional development—it’s also about the company you keep. I’ve learned that surrounding myself with people who inspire me and challenge me to grow is one of the best things I can do.

Here’s how I’ve invested in my personal life:

• Building authentic relationships that nurture and uplift me.? Quality over quantity has been my mindset but choose your preference.
• Cultivating friendships that encourage growth for everyone involved.
• Creating a supportive network that empowers me to thrive and gives me the opportunity to help others do the same.

These relationships have enriched my life in ways that no other investment could. They’ve provided me with support, encouragement, and accountability, which are essential for personal and professional success.? However, I have to be intentional in cultivating these relationships.? This involves giving my time, attention and compassion to those I care about.? It isn’t and can never be all taking and no giving!

Why Investing in Yourself Matters

Have I convinced you that investing in yourself is the best thing you can do?? It isn’t selfish, ?it’s the foundation for everything else in your life. Strong foundations support great things!? When you prioritize your own growth and well-being, you’re better equipped and prepared to show up for your family, your career, and your community.

The journey starts with a decision: to value yourself enough to make the effort. Whether it’s through healthier habits, lifelong learning, or nurturing meaningful relationships, the ROI (Return on Investment) is exponential!

So, ask yourself: What’s one way I can start investing in myself today? Share in the comments below. And remember.....You’re worth it!

Let’s continue to Thrive Inclusively !

#MentalHealth #ProfessionalGrowth #PersonalGrowth #Health #Productivity #SelfCare #EntrepreneurLife #ThriveInclusively #BuildingResilience #Leadership #Leadershipcoaching

Maxine Legall is the CEO and Founder of Thrive Inclusively, where she empowers leaders and organizations to reach their full potential. As a speaker, consultant, and coach, Maxine is passionate about leadership development, resilience, and building inclusive cultures that drive meaningful change. She brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare and nonprofit sectors, dedicated to transforming teams and fostering environments where everyone can thrive.

Learn more about her company at https://www.thriveinclusively.com