As much as I always encourage people to take their financial future seriously, especially by investing and buying shares, I also believe it is important to talk about the reality that many people don't mention.
Buying shares is a long-term game.
It is not a get-rich-quick scheme.
Looking at my investments today, I saw that most of the shares I own are currently trading below the prices at which I bought them.
In simple terms, if I decide to sell them today, I would be selling at a loss.
The one that pains me the most is Dangote Sugar š
I bought it at ā¦82.25 per share, and it is currently around ā¦64.65 per share.
When you multiply that difference by the number of shares owned, you can imagine the amount sitting in unrealized loss.
This is one side of investing that many people do not talk about.
People often share screenshots when their investments are doing well, but they rarely show you the periods when the market is moving in the opposite direction.
That is why I always tell people:
Do not invest money you will urgently need tomorrow.
If your goal is to double your money within a few weeks or months, shares may disappoint you.
However, if your goal is to gradually build wealth, own a piece of good companies, and potentially enjoy long-term growth over several years, then shares can be a valuable option.
For now, the only stock in my portfolio that is putting a smile on my face is GTCO š
The others are currently teaching me patience and emotional discipline š
Investing has taught me that sometimes the hardest part is not buying shares. The hardest part is staying calm when the market is not moving in your favour.
Before buying any stock or share, take time to do your research.
Understand the company.
Understand the risks.
Understand that prices can go down just as easily as they can go up.
And most importantly, invest with a long-term mindset.
š Please note: I am not a financial adviser. I am only sharing my personal experience and lessons from my own investment journey.
Have you ever invested in shares, stocks, mutual funds, or any other form of investment?
What has your experience been like so far?
