Edmund Lao, a Registered Financial Planner, believes that the principles that made Bruce Lee a martial arts legend can teach us a lot about building wealth. For Lao, it’s all about focus — a concept that Lee mastered both in his fighting and personal philosophy.
“Bruce Lee didn’t get great by trying everything. He focused on perfecting one kick,” Lao told Financial Adviser PH. “This approach applies to wealth-building too. Master one thing at a time, and you’ll achieve lasting success.”
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s tempting to spread yourself thin, jumping from one investment or strategy to the next. But Lao cautions that this lack of focus can be detrimental to your financial growth. “The most successful investors don’t try to master everything — they focus on one strategy, learn it inside out, and stick to it,” he says.
Lao explains that much like Lee, who honed his signature sidekick by practicing it over and over again, wealth-building requires discipline and repetition. Instead of chasing the latest investment trends, Lao recommends focusing on building expertise in one area. Whether it’s real estate, stocks, or retirement planning, mastering one strategy leads to better returns and less risk.
“Trying to invest in everything at once leads to confusion and mistakes,” Lao says. Instead, stick to one investment path, educate yourself, and make consistent contributions. “Focus on your chosen strategy and allow it to grow. Slow and steady wins the race in wealth-building, just like in martial arts,” he adds.
The takeaway:
Bruce Lee’s focus on mastery can be your key to financial success. Edmund Lao emphasizes that by focusing on one thing at a time, you’ll build wealth more effectively, with less stress and more satisfaction in the long run. Master your finances by sticking to one path and perfecting it.
