Chapter 1: Understanding FOMO

In a past career as a financial advisor, I learned a crucial lesson that has stayed with me. Many people experience FOMO—fear of missing out—related to various aspects of life. This irrational fear leads to more poor decisions than anything else. It reminds me of wisdom shared by a mentor who acted as a father figure in my life: "Chasing after one bus means you’ll miss the next one, so don’t waste your energy on it; another opportunity will arrive."

With investments, this insight translates to a valuable question: If you’re holding onto a losing investment, ask yourself whether you would purchase it at its current price. If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go.

This concept should not be confused with mindlessly pursuing something without a strategy. When you have the right indicators, you can anticipate and respond appropriately rather than just react. This proactive approach stems from a solid foundation of confidence in your abilities.

The peril of FOMO lies in the urge to keep pace with others, which often results in premature failure. Achieving your goals requires confidence, skill, and capability. Confidence without the necessary skills can lead to wasted effort. When someone claims, "I am confident," they often mean they have a vague belief in their ability. However, when equipped with the right skills, confidence transforms into an effective force that drives you toward your goals. It shifts from a feeling of uncertainty to a decisive "I can do this."

Would you prefer a mere assumption or a solid assurance? On any film set or stage with stunts, I needed absolute certainty. Without it, the risk of injury is high.

When working toward your goals, it's essential to have the right tools at your disposal. Just as an engine needs to run and a boat needs to sail, tools are meant to be utilized. Determine what you need to reach your destination.

I sound like a parent now, but I truly believe that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Later in life, I pursued an MBA to transition into an executive role at my company. This decision was also about setting an example for my daughters, demonstrating that it’s never too late to further your education and knowledge. I wanted to instill the importance of lifelong learning in them.

Whatever ambitions you hold, remember you’re not alone in your aspirations. Conduct thorough research and allow your confidence to energize your efforts. Be prepared to make sacrifices in the name of growth, whether you’re aiming for a career in entertainment, acting, stunt performance, Broadway, or behind the scenes in corporate America. Use your confidence to build your toolkit and let that confidence guide you in utilizing those tools effectively.

Confidence alone won’t suffice. However, with the right tools and connections, you will have everything you need to reach your goals.

Chapter 2: Building Your Toolkit