Why I Regret Not Starting This Investment Strategy Sooner

Learn from Isha's journey as she opens up about her major investing regret and the one strategy she wishes she had embraced earlier. Know more about her relfections from her story below:

There was a time when the thought of investing felt like it was meant for someone else, not me. I kept my money safe, but that also meant it wasn't growing much. I watched from the sidelines as others made moves, investing in companies and properties, building up income that came in whether they were working or not. I couldn't help but wonder, "What if?"

My journey with money was pretty straightforward. Save some, spend some, and avoid big risks. I heard about investing in stocks that pay you back and buying into real estate, but it all seemed too complex. It was easier to stick to what I knew, until I realized I was missing out on a lot.

What really changed the game for me was understanding the value of a steady income. Quarterly dividend payments were a revelation. Every three months, companies I've invested in share their profits with me. It's not just about the cash, though that's great. It's about being part of something bigger, having a stake in businesses across the globe. These payments are reminders that my investments are alive, breathing, and working on my behalf.

It's one thing to work for your money, but it's another when your money starts working for you. That steady drip of income from dividend-paying stocks or rental properties isn't just money in the bank; it's peace of mind. It's knowing that every quarter, there's a little extra coming in, whether I'm working, sleeping, or on vacation.

Then, there's real estate. I stumbled upon EasyProperties, a way to invest in property without needing a ton of money upfront. It was an eye-opener. I'd been paying rent for years with nothing to show for it. Now, I saw a chance to change that, to actually own a bit of the places I was interested in.

I began to learn everything I could about these investments, turning my "if onlys" into "let's do this." It was about taking control, no longer letting fear of the unknown hold me back. And while I'm still learning, I'm also earning, bit by bit.

This journey taught me it's never too late to start. Missed chances? Sure, I've had them. But there are always new opportunities. What I learned? Don't wait. I learned the hard way, but you don't have to.

So here are the big money lessons I learned:

1. Start Small, Think Big: I learned you don't need a fortune to get started. Even small amounts can grow over time. I started with R300 and slowly contributed every month when I could.
2. Patience Pays Off: The real beauty of dividends and rental income isn't in the flashiness of quick wins but in the slow, steady build. It's a marathon, not a sprint, and patience really does pay off.
3. Reinvestment for Growth: I learned the importance of reinvesting those dividends and rental income. It's tempting to spend that money but using it to buy more shares or invest in more property units worked for me.
4. Financial Stability: The steady income has given me a buffer against economic downturns. It's comforting to know there's a fallback that doesn't depend on a 9-to-5 job.

Looking forward, I see a path lined with the potential for even more growth and stability. This strategy isn't just about building wealth; it's about building a life where financial stress is reduced, and freedom and choice take center stage.

It's a lesson I learned later in life, but one I'm keen to share far and wide.