We need to be cautious about the filters we have, as too often, the resulting trends that we then follow are not true trends. We just think they are. I believe it is necessary, for our own well-being, to interrogate our own observations and conclusions daily.
Visible ownership of possessions is one way people signal wealth, whether they mean it or not. For a long time, ‘plentiful possessions’ defined my picture of wealth.
People hoard cash when they’re uncertain. It may be that the world is just feeling more unsafe.
One of the best things may be to hold a larger cash moat much like a castle had a moat in the Middle Ages. However, a cash moat is not the only means of protection against uncertainty.
Considering the last 30 years, I feel fortunate to have been involved in this industry. The continual intellectual rigour and exposure, whilst also aiming for the noble goal of helping people achieve their desired outcomes, has been highly rewarding.
Not many people stick it out. Not many companies survive. This is why, thirty years of consistently ploughing away with resilience is worth taking a moment to celebrate.
We too live in a world defined by turmoil and don’t always have the choices we wish we could have. We’re operating in dangerous and noisy environments.
Amidst the chaos, noise, and threats, it is up to us to create and protect the space to flourish.
The truth is, as we age, we will lose many of the labels we have carefully constructed around us.
Our reluctance to let go of our badges is not irrational.