“True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.”– Arthur Ashe
When most kids are young, they’re attracted to glamour professions such as pro sports, music, acting and even politics.
Yet, after the super storms that have struck Texas and Florida, the true professional heroes will be unsung, those who are going to help these communities rebuild.
They will be parents, teachers, nurses, librarians, doctors, lawyers, accountants, engineers, construction workers, police officers, firefighters, and public service employees.
Unsung Heroes
They don’t get the television interviews, cheering fans or red carpet treatment. They do get the job the done.
In the investment world, the glamour usually goes to the star hedge fund or mutual fund manager who is shooting the lights out with great returns.
Meanwhile, unsung financial advisers help clients meet their goals in a responsible way.
Homework
It involves plenty of reading, analysis, and psychological strength, especially when markets, portfolios, or positions take a tumble.
Over the years, quietly beating the market by one, two, or three percentage points can add up to an incredible amount of extra money for those fortunate to have capital placed with these excellent professionals.
In this light, I might add one of the most important skills an investor can learn is learning not to panic when things go against you.
Cool Stocktaking
Finding a good company at a fair price is critical in equity investing.
In my opinion, so is holding good companies when they may falter and not cutting them loose if they have a bad quarter.
Often times, in my view, the best investment you can make is to reinvest capital into an existing position you are familiar with when it struggles.
Again, no glamour involved, just making good decisions, which is really what investing is based on.
Photo Credit: Nick Perla via Flickr Creative Commons
