Ask HN: How do you invest in yourself?

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> which ones have the highest returns

Build good, strong relationships.

As geeks we dont tend to value human relationships.

However, good, strong relationships will pay out dividends and change your life for the better.

They will encourage you to improve yourself, improve your health, improve your knowledge.

On the other hand it's also important to realize bad actors and act accordingly.

Check out my latest ASK HN thread for an idea on handling bad actors.

For me this year the best improvements have come from time - these have the highest returns monetary wise too as most are free.

- Meditating (Headspace or Waking Up App - try the 30 day trials)

- Heavily exercising 3-4 times a week ($15/week gym)

- $8 Gratitude Journal app

- Eating clean and cooking (cheaper than eating out)

In the last 10 years (I'm nearly 30) I've invested a lot in coaching, training, conferences and books - nothing has really helped even close to as much as the above. At the end of the day my increases in salary have been mainly from keeping a critical mind, not further training. A great daily practice also makes every book I read much more meaningful.

I would recommend, by order of priority - sleep enough and drink enough - eat well and perform 30 minutes exercise a day - invest in relation with your loved ones (parents, children, significant others). If you are in the phase in your life where you do not live with your family (young adult), have a few valued friends.

If you have all this, whatever happens at work will not kill you, and this is a good thing.