Why Focus and Effort Trump Easy Paths
In a world mesmorised with the mirage of effortless wealth or returns without risk, it’s worth pausing to ask: can genuine, transformational wealth still come from work hard and focus? With record amounts of cash sitting idle in bank accounts and property markets showing signs of strain, many aspiring investors and business owners face an uncomfortable truth. Is now the time to quit, or double down? Wealth creation –whether through entrepreneurship or concentrated investing, demands more than hope and patience; it requires deliberate action, resilience, and a willingness to embrace volatility rather than evade it.
Work, Before Play
First, hard work remains the cornerstone of lasting wealth. It’s harder to believe this though, largely due to cultural/generational trends that celebrate “lazy money.” We all want the easy wins, hoping property appreciation or passive investments carry us to financial security. I’m not sure this approach while comforting, is going to be fit for purpose in the future. Property values can stagnate, and share prices can tank without warning. Any investment started in the good times will be tested right now, or at any time fundamentals challenge our initial assumptions. I’ve built up and sold two businesses now, and I can confirm rolling up your sleeves and getting to work, is very similar to ‘focus investing’, where you only choose a few investments you know well. Both require the discipline of putting in the work, before you enjoy the lifestyle that comes with it. People who avoid ups and downs often see their progress slow down or even go backwards [when adjusted for inflation especially]. Whether in business or in markets, wealth comes only after steady, intentional effort.
Spreading Things Too Thin?
Second, focus is important. You’re not going to get above average, if you can’t hang on when others freak out. Wealth that flows from spreading your money across a virtually infinite set of bets, runs the risk of underperforming one powered by concentration. Consider the small-business founder who zeroes in on delivering value, focusing on doing just that one thing, exceptionally well. Or the self-directed investor who studies and holds a select few assets. Let’s be honest here for a moment – not everyone’s a business person, and not everyone can invest like this, but concentrated effort underpins meaningful wealth. Like a business going through tough times, a focused approach on driving revenue might get you through. It’s often painful, but on the other side you’re stronger than you once were.
Is There An Opportunity Here?
Right now, more than ever, there’s a real chance to build lasting wealth if you’re willing to take intentional steps. There is a wall of grey-haired self-employed business owners approaching retirement, with zero plan to exit. There’s a huge pool of opportunity for those ready to step up, learn the ropes, and lead with purpose. It won’t be easy, and that gap between those who are willing to put in the hard work and those hoping for quick, easy returns, is getting wider. But it’s worth it. This isn’t just about money – it’s about what side of this do you want to be on [wealth, or dependence on the state].
Wealth Is There, If You Want It.
It’ll take a conscious choice, and re-formed habits to move beyond passivity, comfort and entitlement, but it can be done. Luke Kemeys is one such example, and he’s showing others how through his Keep The Change and Next Advisory Podcasts.
Whether in managing a portfolio or growing a business, success is reserved for those willing to ask the difficult questions of themselves, relearn a few things, accept uncertainty, and commit to disciplined action. For investors and entrepreneurs alike, the message is clear: wealth is there if you really want it.
