How to Invest in Yourself

Roadblocks on the path come along, making you question what you are investing your energy in. Can you handle the hazard ahead?

There was a recent storm on the cycling platform Zwift (think Peloton, but you supply the bike), when subscription prices were increased. Watching the reaction was fascinating. Most commenters were incensed that the company raised prices as much as they did. (To be fair to Zwift, it was the first increase in nearly seven years.)

This wasn’t fair. The increase was too much. I’m leaving the platform. All reactions to what happened. And all valid, as people, some of whom have spent not only thousands of dollars, but thousands of hours sweating, felt betrayed by Zwift.

For me, it was a chance to zoom out a little and ask—was Zwift worth the investment? Of time, of money?

The answer was an unequivocal yes. In the pandemic lockdowns, the gym in my apartment building was closed. And while I could go outside, races and rides had been cancelled left and right. The chance to be with people had evaporated.

Except on Zwift. Virtually, I could ride solo, take part in group events, and enjoy the banter in the global chat. I also didn’t have to put myself in danger on the road.

Zooming out, and seeing clearly

And a funny thing happened along the way. I got healthier. I dropped 20 pounds. The investment of time and money was worth it, helping me feel better during an acutely  uncertain time.

Zooming out in a situation like ‘l’affaire Zwift’ and looking at what you’re investing in crucial. It’s a time and space to consider where you are, whether it’s your career, or your health.

Where are you putting your energy, your money, your time? What is the payoff? When is the payoff coming? Coaching can help you understand what you are investing, and getting the return on investment you seek.

Then, once you decide that the investment worth your time, energy and money, the investment never ends. If the investment—career, hobby, endeavor—brings you joy, then the question of investing becomes an easy one. It becomes who are you as a person, as a human being.

There will always be hills to climb, be it on real hills, or the virtual hills of a cycling platform. Will those hills be worth your time and your investment? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

I’m Richard Taliaferro. I’m a certified career and health coach, trained in habit change, specializing in helping mid-stage professionals gain clarity on their career and health journeys. I invite you to click on the link, and let’s talk about how I can support you.