Today I have a rant and unique outlook for you guys.
In my 29 years of existence I am certain of one thing, some people are simply lazy and there is absolutely nothing you can do to change them. Some of you might argue that they may lack the proper education or access towards the goal they are trying to achieve but quite frankly I’m calling BS! The fact of the matter is this, if you truly want to achieve something 80% of your success will be based on your motivation and will to do so, while the other 20% factors in education, access, and opportunity.
A lot of my friends know and consider me “Mr. Finance.” Not a day goes by where I’m not reading, writing, or talking about finances. Therefore I constantly get approached by friends, coworkers, and family about financial matters. Some want to know how I accomplished so much at a young age and some want to learn how to invest like I do. The problem is when I give them the answer, very rarely do they follow or heed my advice. For the longest time I use to think I was making things too complex or not articulating my point clearly enough, but that’s not the problem. The problem is they didn’t and don’t have the desire to challenge their current financial belief system, self-educate, or sacrifice. That may come off as a harsh statement but sometimes the truth hurts.
Now I’m not here to judge anyone else, I truly believe the phrase “To Each Their Own,” so if people want to spend all their time watching their favorite TV series, sports, or video games then go for it! But don’t come to me a couple weeks or months later complaining about the complexities of investing or starting a business. Neither of them are complex if you put forth all of your efforts.
What in the world sparked this outburst of mine???
A college friend of mine recently started a small business selling a small number of health products. I saw her trying to market her product on Facebook and that she started a blog. I inquired about her product and we corresponded through a couple of emails, then I sent her the following…
If you’re interested I’ve been blogging for a couple months now and enjoy it a lot. I was asking about your site because I am looking to do interviews with people that have side businesses outside of their 9-5 full time jobs.
I took a look at some of your site stats and I can see you’re just getting started. If you’re seriously looking to build your blog and create a brand I can definitely help you (no sales pitch I don’t want any of your money), the number 1 thing I’ve learned about blogging is if you help and contribute to the blogosphere it will come back to you 10 fold.
I’m not trying to be assertive but if you want a helping hand I can definitely help.
You might not know what these numbers mean but I’m just getting into SEO and I just got my google page rank of 2 and I’m approaching an Alexa Ranking of under 200,000.
I know you’ve always been a determined person and with your business background I really think you could be successful.
Marvin
Now guess what happened…
She NEVER emailed me back and that was over two weeks ago! I honestly don’t care that she didn’t take me up on my offer it was a sincere gesture, but I will admit I was annoyed at her decision not to respond. I’m sharing this letter because I wanted to highlight my point. When I first started blogging I wish I could have received guidance from a friend. I did so many things wrong and made a ridiculous amount of mistakes for 3 months before I finally started making headway in the blogosphere. Would a person who was motivated and ambitious have taken me up on that offer, you betcha!
This brings me to my main point. I use to be concerned with people stealing my ideas or missing out on investment opportunities but I came to an amazing realization the other day. There are so many lazy people in this world I don’t need to panic. Sure anyone can purchase a domain name and hosting to start their own blog. But how many people are willing to write 500-800 word articles 3-5 times a week? How many people are willing to reach out and network with other bloggers around the world on a daily basis? Not many! =)
As I said before. I’m not judging anybody, I don’t believe in judging others because I haven’t walked a mile in their shoes. However, these lazy attitudes give me a superior advantage in life because I’m willing to put in the work, I’m willing to fail, and I’m willing to educate myself no matter how long it takes!
This my friends assures me that the world is full of opportunities and only a select few will ever take advantage of them!
Do you have any friends, coworkers, or family members that you’ve tried to help but don’t follow through on your suggestions? How did that make you feel? Do you think this post is too harsh? My wife certainly does 
February 18, 2013 at 8:52 pm
Is there a chance she didn’t get your message due to spam blocker? I’d shoot it again just to make sure. It happens to me all the time.
It’s disappointing when people don’t respond. I’ve learned to just move on b/c everything is rational. Someone who doesn’t respond to me after a couple tries means I’m not important enough to them to respond.
February 18, 2013 at 9:16 pm
Hey Sam, unfortunately I know it wasn’t blocked because we had exchanged several emails prior under the same header. I’m not too beat up over it, I just find it a little rude/unprofessional not to respond to a person you’ve known for almost a decade. But who knows she could be real busy.
I was thinking about you when I wrote this post though, I remember you telling me how people ask how you came to be so successful with Financial Samurai in which you always respond just write 1200 articles 2-3 times a week for 3 years =)
February 18, 2013 at 10:45 pm
Nice. Pretty straight forward huh? Why not just post 3, 1,200+ word articles a week for 150 consecutive weeks in order to quit your job and make enough to be your own boss? I think the answer is that not enough people want freedom or financial independence, otherwise, they’d do it. Logical no?
I’d ping your friend again and ask what’s up with the non response. If she ignores you again, cut it off. You don’t have time for this.
February 18, 2013 at 9:46 pm
I’ve noticed this laziness gene. For example, everybody wants to be rich, but the majority will not make the necessary sacrifices to achieve wealth-building objectives. It is ironic how easily people focus on success while dismissing years of dedication and hard work necessary to create those circumstances.
February 19, 2013 at 6:51 am
Exactly! I blame Hollywood and the mainstream media. They always cover stories after someone has “made it” and fail to document what it took to get there.
February 22, 2013 at 11:50 pm
We said, I totally agree with the mainstream media being to blame. They and the politicians do their best to dumb down society. As a result, we become dependent on the them to frame our thought process. I say turn off the main stream media, seek alternatives like blogs you agree with!
February 23, 2013 at 9:37 am
I agree Jim! Thanks for stopping by, enjoy your weekend!
February 18, 2013 at 10:21 pm
As a former consultant, I learned that people do not take advice even when they pay for it! My concern is not that they do not follow the advice, but why do they keep asking for advice they do not follow? I used to offer personal finance advice in return for a small percentage of growth. No growth, no fee. No one took me up on it despite the fact they saw I was successful. I learned that some people do not want help.
February 19, 2013 at 6:56 am
Wow! Not taking advice even when they pay for it, I want to say I’m surprised, but to be honest I’m not.
I just listened to a podcast from Seth Godin this morning that talked about the consumer psyche and he mentioned how if you offer customers an honest deal they are likely to be more skeptical. For example he said it’s been proven in scientific studies that if you have the same $10 bottle of wine but tell the consumer it’s a $90 bottle of wine the majority will say the $90 bottle taste better. Crazy right!?
February 18, 2013 at 10:55 pm
I have a friend who is chronically miserable in his job. I have given him advice about alternate career paths for the last…. let me count… six years. Since before he graduated college. I even emailed him job postings that I came across that I thought he would be interested in and qualified for. To this date, he has followed exactly none of my advice. He is still miserable.
February 19, 2013 at 6:59 am
I can relate. I had a friend lose his job recently so I emailed him a ton of jobs out in North Dakota that are part of the natural gas boom but has he gone out there to try and get one, nope!
If I was a 22 year old college graduate I would pack one bag and road trip out to Northa Dakota seeking out a job in this coming energy boom.
February 19, 2013 at 11:56 am
I will admit that I have approximately zero desire to live in ND, but it beats living with mom and dad. I’ve had to suck it up and move all over the country multiple times for education, training, and jobs. Give it a try, make the best of it, and if it’s terrible there is nothing stopping you from looking for a new job.
February 19, 2013 at 4:40 am
Hahaha I loved this article because this has been my own experiences with family and friends. Also, I hear people saying to me that my current efforts will amount to nothing despite me achieving success at blogging in the past.
I adore the fact that people are so lazy and yet they moan all the time. It’s funny how they moan all day long about how they are tired, hate their work, don’t have enough money to live on, pay too many taxes etc and do nothing about it. I’ve learned long ago to stop giving people advice even when they ask for it or at the very least I’m curt with them about how to improve their lives.
February 19, 2013 at 7:01 am
I agree, I’m tired of being let down and wasting my time aswell. This leaves more opportunities for individuals like you and me! =)
February 19, 2013 at 12:07 pm
Yep. Without lazy people, capitalism would not work
February 19, 2013 at 12:01 pm
“I use to be concerned with people stealing my ideas or missing out on investment opportunities but I came to an amazing realization the other day. There are so many lazy people in this world I don’t need to panic.” Truer words have never been spoken Marvin. It always amazes me how sometimes people can be so lazy or apathetic. I think they often don’t want to put in the work, or are just happy with their lot in life and do not want more. Or, worse yet, they know something needs to change but they simply do not take the time to d it. We see it all the time with our business. They pay us a good sum of money only to tell us they don’t like it and go with their own original idea.
February 19, 2013 at 8:09 pm
I hate to say it but I’m glad I’m not the only one going through this frustration.
February 19, 2013 at 12:41 pm
Many people say they want this or that, but their actions never back it up. They don’t want to do the hard work that is required to get their. It seems that a lot of people just want to win the lottery for their riches. I too blame television. Look at most shows and you will be tempted to want this or that. Advertising agencies are good at getting you to give into your emotions and buy, buy, buy! Before I buy anything, I always ask myself if this item is getting me closer or farther from my goals.
February 19, 2013 at 8:16 pm
I like that philosophy Jon. Another gripe I have with movies is no matter what job the main character has they live in a nice apartment with gadgets there’s no way in hell they’d be able to afford.
February 19, 2013 at 5:21 pm
I totally know what you mean. And to each their own is really the only way to explain it. That’s too bad that person ignored what could have been great advice but hey, you tried and it’s her problem if she wants to learn the hard way what to do and want not to do.
February 19, 2013 at 8:17 pm
That’s what I chalked it up as, her loss. Sam was right I just don’t have time for that, I’m busy enough as it is! Heck the time I spent writing that email to her I could have been planning my future Thailand trip!
February 19, 2013 at 6:59 pm
You are not too harsh!!! I totally agree. There is no substitute for hard work…. not even money or intelligence!!!
February 19, 2013 at 8:20 pm
I agree Barbara, my wife is the sweetest woman you could possibly meet. She hates confrontation and figured this post was too mean and judgmental. Thanks for letting me know I’m not going over the line.
February 19, 2013 at 10:16 pm
I am loving the tips I have been receiving for everyone new to my blog
Sorry about your friend, I do wish I had more personal friends who shared these interests of mine so we could assist each other in our endeavors but I tend to be the only one working so much on so many things!
February 20, 2013 at 9:49 am
Glad to hear you’re getting helpful tips. I feel that if you are motivated the blogosphere welcomes you with open arms and is very willing to help you succeed.
February 20, 2013 at 12:41 am
Marvin, how true this story is. I have the exact experience and thus life taught me not to do any sharing unless I really see an interest. I had a similar wake up lesson too. I am a Scout leader and Personal Management Merit Badge counselor and our troop decided to enhance our lessons to include some practical investment lessons. The boys were completely uninterested about the topic. All preparations went in vain. So I don’t do it again and I understand your frustration.
February 20, 2013 at 9:52 am
I’m sorry to hear about your troop Martin. Especially since I know they had such a bountiful source of information at their hands. Thanks for letting me know I’m not over reacting.
February 20, 2013 at 5:25 am
Marvin,
Hehe, I think that was a little harsh. But you know what? It’s also true.
I admit that I am fairly lazy, or rather stuck in a routine. A few years I was hungry and was rewarded with an early promotion years ahead of my peers. Somewhere between now and then I realized the military is a waiting game to collect a pension. An extra rank or two just seems like extra headaches now. Hmm… You’ve given me a lot to think about…
You’re going to Thailand? Nice! I start my leave there on Sunday! I’m so pumped!
February 20, 2013 at 9:55 am
I remember the rank game in the military. Do this, do that, check this box, make sure you DEFINITELY don’t check that box and promotions should happen fairly smoothly. It’s all what you make of it.
I have been trying to get to Thailand since my first deployment to Iraq in 2007. Now with a family and kids it keeps moving farther and farther away, we plan on going in 2 years. Make sure you take lots of pics while you’re there, I’d love to see some of them.
February 20, 2013 at 9:40 am
Marvin,
Nothing says both you and your wife can’t both be right! Sure, it was a bit harsh, blunt, and forward, but you know what? Sometimes a stiff kick to the teeth is what is needed. As an added bonus, you’ve gotten the opportunity to relieve some of the frustration you felt with your friend.
Be thankful you have the gumption and focus to move forward with you dreams and passions! And don’t ever wait on those who don’t!
February 20, 2013 at 10:06 am
Very well said! Thank you for the kind words.
February 20, 2013 at 4:58 pm
My brother has already told me he doesn’t have time to read books or blogs on better business OR go to conventions/conferences. Last week he told me that even if he did, he couldn’t afford them.\
Hmmm….can’t figure out why his business is always about to fail and he’s always chasing everything but an actual business plan.
February 21, 2013 at 1:19 pm
I know this story all to well and definitely know your frustrations especially with a family member.
February 20, 2013 at 5:34 pm
Wow, great story and thanks for sharing. I’ve come across my fair share of lazy people as well, and it drives me nuts. But, on the flip side, their lack of effort opens up more opportunity for you in the long run!
February 21, 2013 at 1:24 pm
Thanks! Glad to know I wasn’t flying off the handle. I believe you’re right, more opportunity for guys like you and I in the long run.
February 21, 2013 at 10:31 am
I battle my own laziness sometimes. When I overcome I get a ton done towards reaching my dreams. But sometimes you just gotta give in and veg out in front of the tv. Luckily though I’m one of those people with enough internal motivation to achieve my goals that I usually am able to get myself busy to work. I do often get irritated by the people who talk so much about their dreams but then never do anything to achieve them! Probably one of my biggest pet peeves.
February 21, 2013 at 1:26 pm
I believe we all go through spurts of laziness at some point because you can only be in “go mode” for so often. The difference as you pointed out is we can recharge and go at it again!
February 21, 2013 at 8:40 pm
It really is amazing the way people can react when offered something for nothing.
I remember when I was first starting to work with people and train them in my profession and I wanted to test some things out. I had some friends who in the recent past had expressed considerable interest so I offered to essentially spend dozens of hours working with them for absolutely nothing as long as they were willing to give me some effort and offer a bit of feedback.
Of course they jumped at the chance and were extremely excited to get going but that changed quickly. Suddenly they were too busy, making bad excuses, etc and the effort wasn’t there. I was stunned. They still said they were very interested, but words and actions didn’t align at all.
Contrast that with those who have made a financial COMMITMENT and the difference is amazing. There seems to be some odd disconnect for people if they don’t feel they have to pay a price that is something of value to them. Lazy people just won’t do anything if they don’t have something on the line, even if they are missing out on a very valuable experience. So strange…
February 21, 2013 at 10:07 pm
The human psyche is still a mystery to me as well Cody. Any ambitious person would have jumped at the opportunity you offered them yet they dragged their feet. Such a frustrating situation I’m sure. I’ve experienced the same frustration when trying to educate my family on personal finances for FREE. But they’d rather pay for advise from someone they can’t even trust.
February 22, 2013 at 11:52 am
As far as I’m concerned, anyone that isn’t actively working for whatever it is they want is just living in a dream world. When it comes to PF/FI, none of the principles are complex so there’s no excuse not to do it and you won’t ever do it until you commit yourself to make the change.
February 23, 2013 at 9:36 am
I agree, investing is so simple. It really truly is, all you have to do is contribute time and effort. Unfortunately JC I don’t think people are willing to work hard until it’s too late. This is why we always see enormous tops in the market because everyone else wants to hop on the bandwagon without doing much research.
February 25, 2013 at 4:39 pm
I am totally late to the commenting party but to answer your question–YES! I have a friend that desperately wants to earn money singing. She’s pretty good, too. Being myself, I decided to put my networking and skills into action and gave her some information on open mic nights, where to look for possible gigs, stuff like that. I even told her I’d go with her so that she didn’t have to do it alone. She has not done a thing in the 6 months since.
I don’t force the issue with her since it’s not my life. I tried to help and if she doesn’t want to do anything about it, she has to live with it.
February 25, 2013 at 8:06 pm
That’s the best way to look at it. You gave it a heartfelt effort and she’s still dragging her feet. Thanks for stopping by!
February 26, 2013 at 5:59 pm
Your friend probably didn’t take you up on it because the “selling products to friends and family” is pretty scammy, millions of people are trying it and failing (I’m sure it’s multi-level marketing) and they’d probably never get any traction in google no matter what they do. I don’t even consider those “businesses”; they’re just scammy pyramid schemes. Glad they didn’t take you up on the offer; stay away! (and don’t buy into the success story and “get in on the ground floor” pitch.). They’re all brainwashed the same way.
February 26, 2013 at 9:58 pm
It’s one thing to not take me up on the offer, but to not respond to my email at all. That’s what irritated me the most.
May 7, 2013 at 11:37 am
I agree with you. If you really want to accomplish something you just have to do it. You don’t have to be super talented to be successful you just have to work super hard!
May 7, 2013 at 3:30 pm
That’s right! Sometimes simply getting up and moving will be all you need to get started.