So, after twenty-five years in the work-a-day world, here's my advice...
Find something that you enjoy doing...
That not everyone else can or is willing to do...
That you can get really good at...
Preferably that other people find value in so you can make a decent living...
Learn to do it very well, then maintain your skill...
That's it.
Seems simple, doesn't it?
Then why have I never been able to do it?
Bonus information:
If given the choice, pick something that you can be your own boss doing. Any time you are working for someone else, a good portion of your effort goes to financially benefit the owner(s)/executive(s), not you. Plus, there are lots of perks and financial benefits to owning a business. If you do decide to work for someone else - be careful. Small businesses tend to exist for the benefit of the owner, large businesses for the benefit of the executives and stock holders. Don't discount working for the government - you can retire while you are still young and either enjoy many years of life with some level of financial security, or still have time for a second career. Don't discount non-profits - you won't get rich, but you might find the work fulfilling. Money can bring comfort, but it's not everything; on the other hand, being poor sucks. Not matter what, remember, no one will be looking out for you, except you.
Start saving for retirement early. Like the day you start your first job. It is amazing how much sooner or how much richer you will be when you decide you've had enough of the grind. In thirty or forty years, you will appreciate the extra cash much more than you will be glad that you bought that shiny bauble you really didn't need and long ago threw away.
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Posted by David at August 13, 2005 07:39 PM