Open Your Eyes. 

The things that hinder us most are almost always right in front of us, but we can't see it because it may be the very thing that we're used to. Just because you've become accustomed to something or someone doesn't mean that it, or they, deserve a permanent spot in your life. You have to become aware of what's affecting your progress and then be willing to weed those things out. The wrong type of investments can render negative returns, especially those to which you turn a blind eye.

You have to be able to look at things and figure out if the situation is best for you; that's the key. Set your sights on what you want, and determine what's necessary for you to attain it. Anything that deters you from the path of getting that isn't worth the investment.

Be Intentional.

Doing things purposely leaves less room for anything that has no promise of a return. When you're strategic and have an end goal in mind then the things that get in the way of that will be intentionally avoided. It's like hiring a trainer, attending the sessions, then not being mindful of the foods you consume. The hard work and the money you've invested goes out the window; and if you do see results, it's going to take much longer, and will require more money and more time. Seems silly to invest in something and get in the way of your own return, right?

Knowing what you're building toward and having the mindset to go after what you deserve will aid in your decision on how and what you choose to invest in. If you know that you don't have the time and mindspace to put toward something because it's going to cost you more than it's actually worth, then you're more than likely not going to do it.

Don’t Build to Destroy.

Investing is all about putting a little in and getting something back from it. Of course there are other deciding factors that determine how big a return will be, but every little gain matters, especially to those that have an end goal in mind.

We build brick by brick, and everything takes time. Remember that the small investments with even the smallest returns make a difference because each and every one of them are needed. There is no point in building to destroy, and that's exactly what happens when you invest parts of you into things that mean you, your goals, or your peace of mind no good.

ROI should be at the basis of anything you dedicate even the tiniest part of yourself to. Sometimes we can be so invested in the idea of investing in the people and things that we care about, that we don't take notice to how it does not benefit us. Whether the return is monetary or a building block toward your personal goals, make sure that your efforts aren't in vain.