February 20, 2025Your Best Investment: Yourself 

Improving your financial position often starts with cutting costs. After all, the less you spend, the more you can save. While this is sound advice, there’s a bigger factor at play when it comes to long-term wealth: your earning potential. In an ever-changing economy, the value you deliver can determine whether you thrive or struggle.  

The past two decades have been a testament to this reality. The Great Recession brought widespread layoffs and financial uncertainty. Just as the economy began to recover, the COVID-19 pandemic brought a new wave of layoffs as entire industries were reshaped. Then, inflation surged, driving up costs across the board. Now, the rise of AI technology has introduced new challenges and opportunities – leaving many workers questioning their futures. 

Amid all these shifts, one truth remains constant: your ability to adapt and grow – to increase the value you bring to the table – is key to financial security. As the famous saying goes, “Invest in yourself. It pays the best interest.” 

 

What It Means to Invest in Yourself 

Imagine you need to have an advanced medical procedure done. There are two doctors available; both graduated from medical school 30 years ago and are well-experienced. 

• Doctor A is old-school and rarely reads up on the latest medical advancements and procedures. 
• Doctor B is an avid learner who embraces new technology, procedures, and medicines.  

Which doctor would you prefer? It’s an obvious choice, isn’t it? Just as you would want the most up-to-date expert for your health, the same principle applies when employers and customers alike are looking for solutions.  

Staying current and continually improving your skill sets ensures that you remain valuable in your chosen career path. It also builds confidence and motivates you to take on new challenges and responsibilities – increasing your earning potential even more. 

 

Ways to Increase Your Value 

There are numerous ways to elevate your potential and ensure you stand out in your field. Here are some strategies to consider as you embark on your journey of self-investment: 

• Pursue Higher Education: 

Consider pursuing a degree in your chosen or desired field of employment or obtaining a higher degree. You could work toward your Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or even a Doctoral degree if it would be beneficial for your field.  

• Take College Courses:  

If you know there’s a particular area of knowledge you would like to expand, such as Leadership or Digital Marketing, see if any of the local colleges in your area offer classes or programs focused on those areas. Most schools allow you to attend specific courses without pursuing a full degree.  

• Get Certified:  

Are there specific certifications in your industry that would enhance your skillset or make you appear as a more desirable candidate? If you are working as a Financial Advisor, are there any certifications or licenses you could acquire that would allow you to serve additional markets? Or, if you are in Human Resources, is there a certification you need to have under your belt to be eligible for your next promotion? Many industries have preferences for their personnel, so anything you can do to enrich your qualifications is a big win.   

• Enroll in Online Courses: 

Many schools or companies provide online learning courses for low to no cost. If you’re a Digital Marketer, companies like HubSpot and Google offer an abundance of free courses and certifications that can boost your résumé and set you apart in the hiring process.  

• Enhance Your Industry Knowledge: 

No matter what your industry may be, there are likely countless resources available to help you improve your skills and increase your industry knowledge. Seek out podcasts, videos, books, industry publications, and blogs. Many may be available at minimal or no cost to you!  

• Cross-Train at Work: 

If there are other positions within your department you’re interested in pursuing in the future, ask your boss if you can begin cross-training in some aspects of that position. This early introduction lets you familiarize yourself with the role and determine if the position interests you long-term. Most employers are happy to facilitate cross-training, as it allows them to invest in their team and promote from within – plus, when that employee goes on vacation, your boss knows that they can rely on you to help them fill in the gaps by covering that role’s functions.  

 

Tips to Get Started 

Deciding to improve your skillset and value is easy. Making it happen proves more challenging. Don’t let obstacles like too little time or a limited budget hold you back. Use the following tips to take immediate action:  

• Determine Your Budget:  

Even if you don’t have a ton of money to spare, don’t let that stop you from pursuing a better future. Reach out to your local colleges and check with online programs to see their pricing options and determine if they will fit into your budget. If not, you can take advantage of plenty of affordable and even free resources!  

Don’t forget to ask your employer about opportunities. Many companies offer tuition reimbursement, pay for certifications, and send employees to conferences if those opportunities relate to your position within the business.  

• Set Aside Time: 

Commit to setting aside at least 1-2 hours a week devoted to investing in yourself. Maybe there’s a podcast you can listen to on your commute or while cooking dinner. Or you can set aside 30 minutes in the evenings 4 days a week to watch videos or read articles or books. Perhaps you can take an online course and complete the lessons and coursework throughout the week.  

• Meet with Your Boss: 

Schedule a meeting with your boss to inquire about opportunities and discuss your future goals. If your desire is to one day lead the Accounting Department, there may be opportunities to cross-train in various roles – expanding your knowledge department-wide. Perhaps there are specific industry publications they recommend you read or trade organizations you can join.  

The most significant step you can take in self-improvement is the first one. Whether you enroll in a college course or listen to your first podcast, every step you take forward puts you closer to your goals. 

 

We’re Here to Help! 

The last two decades have demonstrated that you cannot be complacent at your job and expect great things to come your way. The economy, new technologies, and personal life events will all play their roles. You’re in control of the value you bring to the table – it’s this endless pursuit to better yourself that leads to new financial opportunities and helps you build wealth. 

Remember: “Invest in yourself. It pays the best interest.”  

If you want to learn more about how the credit union can help you finance your journey to invest in yourself and secure a brighter future, we’re ready to help. Please stop by any of our convenient branch locations or visit our website, PEFCU.com. 

 

 

Each individual’s financial situation is unique and readers are encouraged to contact PEFCU when seeking financial advice on the products and services discussed. This article is for educational purposes only; the authors assume no legal responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of the contents.