The importance of investing in knowledge

If a man empties his purse into his head, no man can take it from him. An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.’ —Benjamin Franklin.

This is a longer version of the usual quote “An investment in knowledge …” The author expresses a straightforward saying, which means there will be a great outcome if you start focusing on nurturing your intellectual being. You’ll gain a better understanding of some matters, and this is not something that anyone can take away from you.

This kind of investment is something that we tap without noticing. But add a little consciousness to it and you’ll see its essence.

A study says 60 percent of Filipinos are 30 years old and below, a portion of whom are millennials. Years ago, I wrote about “Personal Finance for Millennials,” 75 percent of the latter spend more on experience rather than material goods. They have this hardworking, motivated, “everything in an instant” attitude that allows them to know things at a fast pace.

Experiences correlate with knowledge as these two are the foundation of wisdom. It is not enough to just know something. You have to apply that knowledge. And by applying that knowledge, you learn more from it.

But, millennial or not, we all need to keep up with the changes and learn as much as we can.

The technological or digital age is a period where information is within easy reach. The least we can do is make the most of it. With the aid of a powerful tool called the internet, we know that searching for what we need now can be done easily.

Whether it is searching for a nearby library, a current event, a technological advancement, socialize to learn, etc. it’s just one click away.

It’s a great way to start consciously investing in knowledge for its compact-ability and multiple platform-compatibility. It allows you to gain knowledge with ease. This article too, is a contributor to your intellect as it gives you an insight into the essence of the subject matter.

But, that is just one of the sources.

One of the most effective ways of consciously finding an investment opportunity in both intellect and business setting is by attending business seminars and conferences, specifically, in the field of finance. You should grab the opportunity to be part of that selfless transfer of knowledge from one body to a number of people—people who may came from different parts of the country, yet are unified by a single interest that gives them a sense of belonging. Those are some things that I have observed from being part of numerous seminars and conferences.

Our brain works in many ways, and what we need is to provide input for it to work with ease. Knowledge is an essential investment in your intellectual well-being. It provides you a deeper understanding of a subject.

Also, it takes out the fear of the unknown. It brightens the gray areas of your thoughts and gives you the confidence boost you may need to pursue an endeavor, especially in business.

Being financially knowledgeable is a great way for you to know how to intelligently cope with the ups and downs of daily business operation; trends that you can see fit to venture into, to make your money grow while spending less; And how to make your money work for you. INQ

Randell Tiongson is a registered financial planner of RFP Philippines. To learn more about investment planning, attend the 82nd batch of RFP Program in March 2020. To register, e-mail [email protected] or text at 0917-9689774