When you think of ‘investing’ you probably picture the stock market or other forms of investment that will increase your net worth.

But not many people consider spending money on themselves as a form of investment. That’s because there isn’t usually a visible ‘return on investment’.

Few people view improved physical and mental health as a worthwhile return on their money because it is hard to track those things numerically.

Yet if our health is deteriorating, and we are depressed, is there any point in having millions in the bank?

Some people think so.

And therefore, their money gets distributed between financial investments, living expenses, and ‘pleasure purchases’.

There is no money left over to be invested back into themselves.

And ultimately, their mental health and their physical health will suffer.

Most people think that ‘pleasure purchasing’ is a viable substitute for working on their mental health — because they will be happy once they buy that new car, right?

And there is no time for prioritizing health because there are $$$ to be made!

Too many people think like this.

This results in a hollow existence where people seek money for the sake of having a larger number in their bank account, and to occasionally satisfy fleeting desires.

The consequence of this is the rising rates of depression and suicide that we are witnessing in Western society.

A meaningless existence where people waste their money on meaningless things.

I’m not demonizing money. It’s essential for our society to function. I’m criticizing the way that it has been framed by our culture. People chase a higher number in hopes that it will fulfill them somehow, even when most of their basic needs are met.

Instead, the first, and most important, investment that you should make with your money, should be in yourself.

I’m talking about buying the highest quality, most nutritious food; spending money on high-quality toiletries that don’t leak toxic chemicals into your body; and getting a membership at a nice gym.

I’m talking about spending money on courses from people you admire to educate yourself; or buy a comfortable bed so you can get great sleep at night.

Maybe you should focus on your mental health by investing in therapy; or outsource your work to relieve stress.

All of these things will improve you as a person. Contrast this to buying a new car or handbag. This will give you social validation for a little bit, till the novelty wears off and you are in the same place as you were before.

I’m not saying you should never splurge. But your priority should first be to maximize your health and lifestyle in a way that will promote fulfillment and longevity.

In a weird way, most of the time, this will result in you making more money — you will be more motivated to work, and your healthier brain will be able to work more effectively.

However because the positive feedback is slow, and there is minimal social validation to be gained, most people ignore it.

However, the results compound with time, and I’m sure this will be the greatest investment you will ever make.