From Ground Zero to Generational Hero: Wealth-Building Secrets Unveiled
By Kraig Kleeman
“Building generational wealth: because ‘just getting by’ is not a family heirloom you want to pass down.” – Erik Severinghaus
Introduction
Today, I’m diving into something pretty close to my heart and, I bet, yours too: building generational wealth. I know it sounds like a lofty goal, something out of a finance guru’s playbook, but stick with me. I’m here to break it down, share some stories, and maybe inspire you to start plotting your family’s financial legacy.
The Real Deal on Wealth-Building Assets
Let’s talk about what can set your kids, and maybe even their kids, up for a life you’re dreaming of for them. It’s not just about stashing cash under the mattress (though a little cash reserve never hurt anyone). It’s about intelligent, long-term investments. Here are my top picks:
- The Power of Owning Dirt and Bricks
Yeah, you heard me right. Real estate is a goldmine for generational wealth. My parents bought their first house in a not-so-glitzy neighborhood because it was what they could afford. Fast-forward a few decades, and that area is now one of the hottest markets in town. The lesson? Buying property, even if it starts small, can lead to massive payoffs for your family down the line.
- The Stock Market: Not Just for Wall Street Wolves
Investing in stocks might seem daunting, but it’s like planting a tree. You start small, give it time, and eventually, you have this sturdy oak standing tall. Diversified portfolios and index funds are your best friends. And remember, it’s about playing the long game. There’s no need to beat the market every year; just growing steadily over time can do wonders.
- Investing in the Brain
My grandma always said: “Education is the one thing nobody can take away from you.” Investing in your and your children’s education is like laying down a path of opportunities. It’s not just about the diploma; it’s about opening doors that wouldn’t have been there otherwise.
Starting from Scratch: Tips for Building Those Assets
Not all of us start on an even playing field, but here’s the thing: everyone has to start somewhere. If you’re looking at your bank account and thinking, “How on earth can I get to generational wealth from here?” I’ve got some tips for you.
- Become a Money Whiz
The first step is understanding money—how to save it, grow it, and spend it wisely. There’s a wealth of knowledge out there (pun intended). Grab a book, search online, or attend workshops. Knowledge is power, after all.
- Start Small, Dream Big
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is generational wealth. Start with what you can—a few bucks in a retirement account here, a small investment in stocks there. Over time, with the magic of compounding interest, these little seeds will grow.
- Tax-Savvy Moves
Get to know the ins and outs of IRAs, 401(k)s, and 529 plans. These accounts offer tax advantages that can really add up over time, making a big difference in how much you can save and invest.
- Network and Find Your Guides
I am where I am with a few key mentors who showed me the ropes. Don’t be shy—reach out to people who’ve been there and done that. Their wisdom could be the key to unlocking your family’s financial future.
Wrapping Up
Building generational wealth is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes patience, discipline, and a bit of savvy. But the beautiful thing is, it’s possible. With the right approach and mindset, you can lay down a financial foundation that’ll support you, your kids, and maybe even their kids after them.
So, what’s stopping you? Dive in, start learning, and begin building that legacy. Your future generations will thank you.
About Erik Severinghaus
Erik Severinghaus is a highly successful entrepreneur, author, and mountaineer. If his accomplishments and aspirations were to draw inspiration from natural icons, he could be described as a fusion of Mark Zuckerberg’s visionary approach to business and Tony Stark’s electrifying approach to saving humanity. He possesses keen business acumen and a flair for captivating customers, investors, and marketing partners.
Erik’s entrepreneurial spirit is boundless, as evidenced by his track record of founding, operating and exiting multiple ventures that have created a combined $600M in value. Erik’s investment skills are striking. He was a founding investor in Hyde Park Angels which recently helped ShipBob achieve unicorn status. He raised $6M startup capital for his newest venture, Bloomfilter, which is growing by triple digits, quarter over quarter.
As an endurance athlete, Erik has conquered some of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest in 2018. In his public appearances, Erik is quick to discuss that learning to navigate through the valleys in his business life is what has led him to properly navigate the victories.