29 Lessons for 29 Years (+ Some Big Milestones!)
29% Smarter (Hopefully)
Dear dudes & dudettes,
This week’s newsletter is a special one. As I’ve just celebrated my 29th birthday, I wanted to share 29 lessons I’ve picked up along the way—some classic life advice, some hard-earned investing insights, and a bit of yachting wisdom thrown in for good measure. But before we dive in, let’s celebrate an exciting milestone: we’ve hit 500 subscribers!
A massive thank-you to each of you for being part of The Yachting Investor community. Your support means the world to me, and I’m so excited about what’s ahead. Speaking of which, don’t miss the housekeeping updates at the end!
Before we dive in: check out our full website & service catalogue
Classic Life Advice
1. Progress, not perfection. Growth is the goal, not perfection.
2. Play the long game. Whether in health, relationships, or finances, consistency wins. Stop the instant gratification cycles.
3. Your network is your net worth. The right connections can change your life.
4. Energy is contagious. Surround yourself with people who inspire you.
5. Happiness is in the simple things. A good book, a long run, or quality time with loved ones.
6. Failure is a teacher. Every setback brings a lesson.
7. Say yes, but know when to say no. Opportunity matters, but so does protecting your peace.
8. Gratitude compounds. The more you appreciate, the more good you notice.
9. Don’t chase trends. In life and style, authenticity always stands out.
Investing and Financial Advice
10. Start early. Compound interest doesn’t wait for anyone.
11. Diversify, but don’t overcomplicate. Simplicity can often yield the best results.
12. Know your why. Investing without purpose is just gambling.
13. Cash flow is king. It’s not just what you earn, but what you keep.
14. Cut the noise. Ignore the headlines; focus on the fundamentals.
15. Learn to play defence. Saving is as important as earning.
16. Invest in yourself first. Books, courses, and networks give the best ROI.
17. Every dollar has a job. Whether it’s saving, investing, or spending, make it intentional.
Watch me in real time trying to Gen Z my way into the Insta algorithm.
Yachting-Specific Advice
18. Stay humble. Even on the biggest superyacht, kindness gets you further.
19. Time flies; save wisely. Life onboard can be fun, but the future matters.
20. Always have a backup plan. A career at sea doesn’t last forever.
21. Learn from mentors. Some of the wisest advice comes from captains and senior crew.
22. Find balance. Long hours demand proper rest and self-care.
23. Travel doesn’t equal experience. True growth comes from reflecting on what you’ve seen.
24. Take photos, but live in the moment. Memories are your best souvenirs.
Fitness and Mindset
25. Run your own race. Whether it’s ultramarathons or life goals, comparison kills progress.
26. Mental fitness is as crucial as physical. Journaling and meditation aren’t soft—they’re strategic.
27. Embrace discomfort. Growth comes from the hard stuff.
28. Fuel your body, not just your cravings. A good diet equals good energy.
Learn to rest, not quit
Wisdom for 29 and Beyond
30. Celebrate milestones, big or small. (like 500 subscribers!)
31. You can’t control everything, but you can control your effort.
32. Build a life you don’t want to escape from.
You never regret a sunrise.
Some Housekeeping
Investing 101 Course
My buddy Alex’s course is an absolute must for those getting started on their investing journey. For $25 (or the price of a cocktail in Miami)- you can start your path towards financial freedom! Highly recommend!
Website
For more insights tailored to yachting professionals—including articles on saving, investing, tax strategies, property investments, and crypto—visit The Yachting Investor. It's your go-to resource for navigating financial waters with confidence.
Social Media Channels
Check out the old socials to watch an aging millennial make an absolute fool of himself:
Buoy’s , Balance & Banter
Your weekly dose of ideas to keep you steady, inspired, and smiling—whether you're charting your financial future or just riding the waves.
Good Read of the Week
📖 Book: Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson
This is a cyberpunk classic that dives into a dystopian future where reality and virtual worlds collide. Follow Hiro Protagonist—a hacker and sword-wielding pizza delivery guy—as he uncovers the mysteries of a digital drug called Snow Crash. This thrilling adventure blends technology, ancient mythology, and razor-sharp satire, and has inspired many of today's AI and metaverse themes.
Words to Live By
💡 Quote: “Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.” - Unknown
Just for Laughs
A HUGE THANK YOU!
Thanks again for all the birthday wishes and all the support and love from The Yachting Investor community. I know this year is gonna be full of epic growth- financially, spiritually, physically and emotionally!
Let’s get it!
Cheers,
Charl Minnaar
The Yachting Investor