The Pursuit of Happyness.

‘Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it." – Maya Angelou

Dear Investors & Friends:

Welcome to this week’s SundayReads.

Yesterday, as I caught up with a friend, he couldn't contain his excitement about his recent getaway to a picturesque island city. The tranquil surroundings and the unhurried pace of life left him spellbound. Yet, amid the blissful moments of relaxation, he found himself pondering the deeper meaning behind his temporary escape. He wondered if these serene interludes were the rewards for the hustle and grind he endures throughout the year. And if he were to reside permanently in such an idyllic setting, what would drive him without the familiar challenges of running his business?

This conversation triggered a cascade of reflections within me, prompting a critical examination of our motivations and aspirations. Do we truly grasp why we pursue certain paths in life, or are our decisions guided by societal norms and personal biases?

I thought about my friend, the archetype of the devoted provider, tirelessly toiling to ensure the well-being of his loved ones. While his intentions may be noble, there's often a complex interplay of emotions at play. Beneath the veneer of selflessness does there lurk a fear of inadequacy, a craving for validation through material success, or a reluctance to confront the existential void that emerges when stripped of one's professional identity. In essence, does the pursuit of financial stability unwittingly transform into a quest for self-definition, a desperate attempt to find meaning amidst life's uncertainties ?

And what about those of us who preach about changing the world, like writing content to challenge how people think about money (me included)? Yeah, we talk about making a difference, but sometimes we're also drawn to the spotlight. Getting praised feels good, right? So, we might end up more focused on getting attention than actually changing minds.

And then there's the pursuit of wealth. While financial independence is important, does it define our self-worth? Do we measure our success solely by the numbers in our bank accounts, neglecting the richness of our experiences and relationships?

So, here's the thing: we often fool ourselves into thinking we've got it all figured out. We spin these stories about why we do what we do, but deep down, we're not always being honest. We're scared to admit that maybe there's more to life than our jobs or our bank statements.

To really understand ourselves, we've got to dig deep. We've got to peel back the layers of excuses and confront our fears head-on. It's not easy, but it's necessary if we want to find true fulfillment. 

And yeah, I might not be a philosopher, but thinking about all this stuff is kind of like philosophy-lite, right? It's about questioning our assumptions and getting real about what really matters. So, maybe it's time we all took a step back and asked ourselves: What are we really chasing? And is it worth it?

As financial advisors, it's crucial for us to help our clients understand their financial goals beyond just accumulating wealth. It's about finding purpose and meaning in their financial decisions, aligning their values with their actions. Ultimately, it's through this journey of self-discovery that we can truly help them achieve financial well-being.

Do dive deep towards self-discovery.

Until then, Ciao.

Sincerely,

Kavita Bothra

Helping you think thoughts you may not have thought before.