We all dream of a future where we’re not just comfortable but thriving—where we’ve surpassed the achievements of our parents and carved out a life of independence and fulfillment. But while this vision is universal, the path to making it a reality can feel daunting. Research tells us that most people fall short of their financial goals, with many ending up in a worse place than their parents. In the first part of this series, we explored why this happens. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into how you can achieve that dream of financial freedom.
Getting to a better place than your parents financially involves two key steps: finding someone who’s already achieved what you aspire to and figuring out how they did it. We call this the Perfect Good Example Assessment and the Action Resemblance Assessment.
Finding Your Role Model
Start by seeking out two examples: those who’ve stumbled (the perfect bad examples) and those who’ve soared (the perfect good examples). While the former might be easier to find—many of us have seen the struggles of our parents—it’s the latter that holds the key to success. These people have cracked the code of financial freedom and can show you the way forward. Here are some steps to help you find your role model:
- Reflect on Your Values: Reflect on your goals and aspirations. What qualities do you admire in others? What aspects of their lives resonate with you on a deep level? By understanding what matters most, you can identify the type of person you want to emulate.
- Look Within Your Community: Your role model doesn’t have to be a celebrity or a public figure. They could be someone within your community—a friend, family member, or colleague—who has succeeded in their financial endeavors. Look for individuals who have overcome challenges like yours and emerged stronger and wiser.
- Seek Inspiration Online: The internet is a treasure trove of inspiration and wisdom. Use online platforms such as social media, forums, and blogs to discover individuals who have achieved financial success and are willing to share their insights and experiences. Follow their journey, engage with their content, and learn from their wisdom.
- Read Biographies and Success Stories: Dive into the world of biographies and success stories to uncover the journeys of individuals who have achieved remarkable success in their financial endeavors. Look for books, articles, and documentaries that profile individuals who have overcome adversity and achieved their goals through hard work, perseverance, and determination.
- Attend Workshops and Seminars: Take advantage of workshops, seminars, and networking events in your area to connect with like-minded individuals and learn from experts in finance and entrepreneurship. Surrounding yourself with people who share your goals and aspirations can provide invaluable support and guidance.
- Trust Your Instincts: Finding the right role model is a deeply personal journey. Trust your instincts and intuition to guide you towards individuals who resonate with your values and aspirations. Listen to your inner voice and choose someone who inspires you to be the best version of yourself.
What Makes a Perfect Good Example
Your perfect good example should have walked a similar path, faced similar challenges, and come out on top. They should have leaped from working for someone to create wealth and live a life that’s a testament to their success.
Picture this: they’ve walked a path similar to ours, facing the same hurdles and challenges that life throws our way. They understand the frustrations, setbacks, and moments of doubt we all experience on our journey towards financial independence.
But here’s where they stand out—they didn’t just settle for the status quo. They dared to break free from traditional employment and venture into entrepreneurship or investment. They took that leap of faith, carving out their path to success and showing us that it’s possible to chart our course, too.
And it’s about more than what they’ve achieved in the past. No, a perfectly good example continues to thrive in the present, showing us that financial freedom isn’t just a destination—it’s a way of life. They exude positivity, resilience, and a relentless determination to overcome obstacles.
But what sets them apart the most is their actions. They don’t just talk the talk; they walk the walk. They make smart financial decisions, prioritize wealth-building activities, and stay laser-focused on their goals with unwavering discipline.
In essence, a perfectly good example isn’t just a mentor or a role model—they’re a beacon of hope, a source of inspiration, and a guiding light for those of us who dare to dream of a life of financial independence. Their story isn’t just about what they’ve accomplished; it’s about what’s possible for every one of us if only we’re willing to take that first step.
Learning from Your Role Model
Once you’ve found your perfect good example, it’s time to dissect their journey. What did they do differently? How did they shift their mindset from just getting by to thriving? What actions did they take to build their wealth and create financial security? It would help to ask and, more importantly, answer these questions.
Assessing Your Actions
Knowing what to do is one thing; doing it is another. Success isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about discipline and action. Take a hard look at your actions and compare them to those of your role model. Are you on the right track or falling into the same traps as your perfect bad example? Be honest with yourself, and be willing to make changes where needed.
Conclusion
Achieving financial freedom isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible. Finding the right role model, learning from their example, and taking consistent action can pave your path to success. Remember, it’s not about where you start but where you’re headed. So keep your eyes on the prize, stay committed to your goals, and trust that you can build a future that’s even brighter than you imagined with the right guidance and effort.
