A couple of weeks ago, I was out in my Speed UTV El Diablo, doing what I love most – navigating the desert terrain. It got me thinking about something that applies to both off-roading and investing: you’ll go where you’re looking.
It’s pretty simple, really. If you’re racing and you focus on that big boulder you’re trying to avoid, chances are you’re going to hit it. But when you keep your eyes on the path you want to take, that’s exactly where you’ll end up.
This is something every off-road enthusiast learns quickly: where your eyes go, your vehicle follows. Focus on that hazardous boulder, and you’ll likely hit it. Focus on your intended path, and you’ll find your way through. This principle doesn’t just apply to off-roading – it’s remarkably relevant to many other activities like river rafting or even just highway driving and, most importantly, investing in precious metals.
Too often, investors fixate on market “hazards”: inflation spikes, stock market volatility, or geopolitical tensions. While awareness of these challenges is important, allowing them to dominate your focus can lead to reactive decisions rather than strategic ones.
Instead, successful investors, like skilled off-roaders, keep their eyes on their desired path:
- Building long-term wealth
- Preserving purchasing power
- Creating a stable financial legacy
Just as I navigate my UTV through the desert’s challenging terrain by focusing on the right line, smart investors navigate market conditions by focusing on their investment goals rather than temporary obstacles.
Take silver, for instance. While some might focus on price volatility as a hazard, experienced investors see opportunity. Trading at roughly 1/80th the price of gold, silver offers flexibility for various investment sizes and strategies. It’s not about avoiding the bumps – it’s about seeing the path through them.
The same goes for gold investment. When prices surge past $3,000 an ounce, some investors freeze, focusing on the “high price” obstacle. But those who keep their eyes on their long-term wealth preservation goals understand that entry price is just one part of the journey. Something that we hear every day is “I sure wish I would have bought a couple of years ago.” To which I always answer “you will say this again in years to come about today!”
In off-roading and investing alike, success comes from maintaining a clear focus on your destination, staying aware of obstacles without letting them dominate your attention, and following a well-planned route while remaining flexible enough to adjust. Enjoy the ride!
Johnny on the Spot is a no-nonsense article series about precious metal investing by Johnny Estes, VP of CMI Gold & Silver.
At CMI Gold & Silver, we’ve spent over 50 years helping investors keep their eyes on the prize. Whether you’re just starting your precious metals journey or adding to your portfolio, we’re here to help you navigate the terrain.
Want to learn more about charting your course in precious metals investment? Download our free investment guide, or call us to speak with a non-commission broker who can help you focus on what matters most – your financial future.
