Investments: Where being boring may lead to being successful

Feel free to reach out to Lizna De Villiers PSG Wealth Adviser directly.

Even with financial planning we are looking for something new. Adverts and news headlines often highlight the “new winner” or complex products which sound as if they might be the next big thing. Although these options may look incredibly attractive, they seldom lead to sustainable wealth.

In pursuit of quick profits, big payments and bright promises, investors are often prepared to take on high risks. However, this we have learnt over time – just like many Springbok games are less exciting yet end in a win, sound investments may often be a little boring too.

Truth is that the best investments often look totally unexciting. It’s not the adrenaline-driven decisions or chasing yesterday’s winners that delivers results. Neither do the big payments at month-end or the bright billboards. It’s the simple things that make the biggest difference:

• Consistency – regular contributions, even if small.
• Discipline – sticking to your plan, despite the market noise.
• Patience – allowing time to do its job.

Like the economist Paul Samuelson said: “Investing should be more like watching paint dry or watching grass grow. If you want excitement, take $800 (or ±R15 000) and go to Las Vegas.”

Real wealth is not built through quick wins, but sustained discipline.

This may sound boring, but something powerful is happening under the surface. Your investments are growing slowly but surely, consistently, thanks to the power of compounding. It is harnessing this quiet growth that can ensure financial freedom overall.

So, at your next financial review, when your adviser tells you there is nothing new, it’s not because we don’t do our job – it’s because your investments are already growing for you, quietly.