The other you?

By: Lawrence Ross

February 27, 2023

 

pexels.com

 

Ok. You’ve reframed the lottery question, you’ve taken stock of your time portfolio, and you’ve asked the hard questions about time assets and liabilities.

 

Now we’re going to step outside the box and ask you to consider the concept of the other you. Don’t worry. We’re not talking about one of those pseudo twins that shows up on soap operas. Hear us out.

 

Is there a part of you that no one knows? Perhaps you're a fantastic painter or have always wanted to learn how to play chess. This is where the lottery question gets exciting because you get to say your time is your own.

 

To explore this other you, make a list of three activities that you've never done that you might be good at or just enjoy. Bridge? Hiking? Pickleball? What about new kinds of travel experiences like boat cruises or food travel. Or maybe you just want to read more.

 

If you’re interested in fitness that’s another way to double down. Starting a new activity or sport can lead to new, memorable experiences, a new network of friends and it could very well add time back into your portfolio by improving your overall health.

 

Either way, you're learning something new about yourself and your body will thank you. And it’s never been easier to track goals and progress with the variety of wellness trackers available now.

 

Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash

 

Another angle on fitness is your mental health. It’s something lots of us say we'll get to when we have the time. Whether it's starting a daily journal, dipping into some self-help reading or finding a therapist to speak to, be sure to include your mental health in your ‘other you’ goals.

 

What about adventure travel? If you've ever had a touch of wanderlust, why not grab a map, and make a plan. Where do you want to go? It’s a big country and a great wide world. Travelling to the four corners of the globe has never been easier. That Eurorail Pass you backpacked across Europe with back in your 20s is now called the Eurail Pass and it will take you just about anywhere you want to go across the continent. 33 countries to be exact.

 

Have you always wanted to go back to school? Enroll in a course in-person or online. There are master classes available online or semester-long courses through the school of your choice. This could be the beginning of a whole new you.

 

Once you start managing your time portfolio, time is on your side, and you get to invest and spend it with confidence and excitement. Choose one thing and become a master, choose a few, or why not try them all!

Disclaimer:
The opinions, estimates and projections contained herein are those of the author as of the date hereof and are subject to change without notice and may not reflect those of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. ("BMO NBI"). Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents have been compiled or derived from sources believed to be reliable and contain information and opinions that are accurate and complete. Information may be available to BMO NBI or its affiliates that is not reflected herein. However, neither the author nor BMO NBI makes any representation or warranty, express or implied, in respect thereof, takes any responsibility for any errors or omissions which may be contained herein or accepts any liability whatsoever for any loss arising from any use of or reliance on this report or its contents. This report is not to be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation for or an offer to buy any securities. BMO NBI, its affiliates and/or their respective officers, directors or employees may from time to time acquire, hold or sell securities mentioned herein as principal or agent. BMO NBI -will buy from or sell to customers securities of issuers mentioned herein on a principal basis. BMO NBI, its affiliates, officers, directors or employees may have a long or short position in the securities discussed herein, related securities or in options, futures or other derivative instruments based thereon. BMO NBI or its affiliates may act as financial advisor and/or underwriter for the issuers mentioned herein and may receive remuneration for same. A significant lending relationship may exist between Bank of Montreal, or its affiliates, and certain of the issuers mentioned herein. BMO NBI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Montreal. Any U.S. person wishing to effect transactions in any security discussed herein should do so through BMO Nesbitt Burns Corp. Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.If you are already a client of BMO Nesbitt Burns, please contact your Investment Advisor for more information.