When I was 23, I stumbled into a fortune by investing $3,000 into a stock called VCSY, a Chinese internet company, which skyrocketed from about $3 to $180 per share after a split. I cashed out at $155 a share, netting a hefty $155,000. I spent this windfall on a racing bike and a second-hand Volvo, not to mention shelling out for insurance and pricey parking in Manhattan.
Looking back, my only regret was not investing more in VCSY. I could have potentially turned $20,000 into a million if I had been bolder. But instead, I played it safe, which cost me a fortune. Post VCSY, I stuck to a rigorous savings plan from my job earnings, investing cautiously in stocks and real estate.
However, the early 2000s taught me a harsh lesson as I watched tech stocks, including my investments, plummet. It was then I decided to shift my focus from high-risk stocks to my career. Ironically, the long hours at work were partly for the free dinner buffets, a minor perk compared to the security it provided during economic downturns.
Despite promotions and raises over the years, I often wonder if I missed out on maximizing my wealth potential due to my aversion to risk after the tech bubble burst. It was a period of seeing many financial casualties, which instilled a deep fear of losing everything.
As I grew older, my fortune hunting became more about searching for reliable investments rather than chasing quick money. I invested heavily in San Francisco real estate, which has paid off significantly. But even so, I can’t help but reflect on missed opportunities in the stock market during significant events like the dot-com boom and the recent pandemic, which saw explosive interest in NFTs and meme stocks.
Fortune hunting isn’t just about the bold moves in the stock market; it’s also about smart, consistent investment in various funds and real estate. It’s a balance of risk and security, and the courage to invest comes easier when you have a good financial cushion.
In summary, don’t just focus on your career for income. Set aside time to explore other investment opportunities. They could significantly boost your wealth if you’re willing to take some calculated risks. Remember, there’s always a bull market somewhere, and fortune hunting requires constant attention and adaptation.
