Reflecting on My Journey

I was an average student throughout my academic career, from high school all the way through graduate school. It wasn't until I faced multiple failures in business while also working as a full-time educator, along with unsuccessful attempts in the stock market, that I recognized my flawed mindset.

I had always believed that real estate was a superior investment option. However, I was hesitant to abandon my online business aspirations or my stock market investments. My teaching job provided the security I needed to take risks in my entrepreneurial ventures. One of the most challenging experiences for me was my foray into stock trading.

During my thirties, I reached a peak in my stock market earnings, only to lose it all to cover expenses from a failed business endeavor. Although I tried trading again, my past experiences weighed heavily on me, especially as I worked to pay off a business-related loan in my forties.

Thanks to my nephew’s encouragement, I gave trading one last chance, and this time, it’s proving fruitful. In my earlier attempts, I was burdened by a mortgage, but now, that financial stress has been alleviated.

After cashing in on my real estate investment property, I enjoyed a remarkable 125% return. My approach was straightforward: I held the property for over 20 years, consistently paid the mortgage, and ultimately sold it for a significant profit.

A New Perspective on Investment

In my late twenties, I discovered stocks I had forgotten about until I received a letter regarding a change of address. Rather than playing it safe, I decided to re-enter the stock market.

However, it’s important to note that I wouldn’t have felt comfortable making these investment decisions without the security of my teaching job and the retirement benefits I amassed over a 27-year career.

While I did experience losses in my business ventures—one being profitable and the other not—I found that my real estate investment and previous attempt at becoming a real estate agent two decades ago laid the foundation for my financial success in this field.

Recognizing and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

Limiting beliefs are often opinions imposed on us by others. I've encountered these dismissive notions many times:

• "You’re just a teacher."
• "Business is difficult because you didn't major in it."
• "You lack the skills to succeed."
• "Finding affordable real estate in this city is impossible."

As I approach the end of my teaching career with an early retirement on the horizon, I feel invigorated rather than finished. There’s so much left for me to accomplish—I’m just at the beginning of a new chapter.

Despite the setbacks from my business endeavors, I’ve gained invaluable insights. The lessons learned through my failures are now guiding me toward success.