Lessons from grandfather about ownership and financial prudence lead author to financial success

From Yahoo Finance: 2025-04-09 13:35:00

The author reflects on his grandfather’s mindset about ownership, emphasizing freedom and security over luxury. Growing up under Portugal’s dictatorship, his grandfather saw financial insecurity used as a weapon. This perspective shaped how the author approached his career, finances, and the value of ownership throughout his life.

The grandfather’s lessons on saving diligently and prioritizing ownership left a lasting impact. He launched successful businesses, invested wisely, and instilled financial prudence in his family. His daughter, the author’s mother, continued these lessons post-dictatorship, emphasizing the difference between necessity and luxury in spending decisions.

Following his grandfather’s principles, the author built multiple businesses in Portugal, experiencing successes and failures. By approaching ventures with limited risk exposure and controlled borrowing, he avoided credit card debt and car loans. His commitment to financial freedom enabled him to pay off his mortgage early and own his home outright.

The author values the feeling of freedom and accomplishment that comes with owning his home debt-free. By prioritizing security over financial performance, he enjoys the flexibility to invest strategically and raise his son without financial stress. The decision to prioritize ownership and financial freedom has brought peace of mind and personal fulfillment.



Read more at Yahoo Finance: My grandfather grew up under a dictatorship. The lessons he passed on helped me achieve financial success.