Investing For The Long Run

Much like Forrest Gump, I embarked on a running journey on a whim and never looked back. Running isn’t just a physical activity; it has become a vital need, a therapy and a sanctuary from life’s challenges. As the great Japanese writer and runner Haruki Murakami beautiful put it: ??… running is both an exercise and a metaphor. Running day after day, piling up the races, bit by bit I raise the bar, and by clearing each level I elevate myself.? If you wonder why I am bring this to LinkedIn, keep reading for I’ll connect the dots between long distance running and investing. But for now, let me share where the road has led me to.?

Seven years ago, I set out on a secret quest to conquer the ??Abbott Six Major Marathons?? namely Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, New York & Tokyo. Little did I know how tough it would be to even get a spot in these coveted races. But with lots of determination, help from friends, charity fund-raising and a bit of luck, I managed to snag tickets to all of them. For each race, it took months of preparations, lots of lonely training sessions, and choosing training over lunch, drinks with colleagues and friends. As far as I am concerned, running is not a sacrifice, it’s a passion that not only brings me satisfaction but also uplifts my spirit. I prefer solitary runs, devoid of any distractions, allowing my thoughts to be my sole companions.

After years of wearing effort, one step at a time, I proudly crossed the finish line of the Tokyo Marathon on March 3rd, earning the coveted medal of achievement (see picture). More than a superb token, this medal epitomizes the character, commitment and consistency essential in pursuing what's ostensibly a trivial personal ambition.

Over the years, amidst the solitude of my regular runs, I've often reflected on the striking parallels between the realms of running and investing. These two passions of mine unmistakably share a common core and a perspective that extends beyond the surface. Among the attributes that connect both are:

• ?Discipline: just as setting realistic objectives and diligently following a workout plan are crucial for runners, investors must adhere to a rigorous process. Success in both realms’ hinges on unwavering discipline and effective execution.
• Endurance: as Warren Buffett astutely puts it: "The stock market is designed to transfer money from the active to the patient." Endurance in long-distance running involves pacing oneself effectively, mirroring the patience required in weathering market volatility for long-term investment success.
• Consistency: like the incremental improvements gained through regular running practice, consistent application of an investment strategy yields significant growth over time. Both pursuits demand unwavering commitment to the process, regardless of external circumstances.
• Awareness: prudent investors avoid ventures that they don't understand. They are aware that reigning on emotions caused by market volatility is vital for long-term investment success. Likewise, astute runners consistently gauge their physical limits and adjust their pace accordingly. Adaptability is key in navigating the unpredictable nature of both endeavours.

In the pursuit of running and investment, the path we embark upon holds a profound power to shape us, transcending the mere attainment of a goal. Whether we fasten our running shoes or delve into the depths of market analysis, our collective aspiration lies in the quest of improvement, as we garner invaluable wisdom along the way. Undeniably, the most exhilarating victory stems from conquering the self-imposed boundaries we once believed insurmountable.

Of #running, #investing, #awareness, #consistency, #endurance & #discipline