If you’ve ever wondered what sets successful investors apart, you’re not alone. The truth is, the best-kept secrets in investing aren’t just about knowing the right deals or strategies. They’re about understanding the principles, the mindset, and the networks that make the opportunities possible. Let’s dive into these secrets—because what’s hidden from most can be your breakthrough.
1. It’s Not the Investment, It’s the Investor
One of the biggest myths in investing is the idea that there are inherently “good” or “bad” investments. The reality? Success is less about the deal and more about the investor. Are you educated enough to evaluate a deal? Do you know what questions to ask? Have you aligned the opportunity with your personal goals?
Mark Podolsky, the “Land Geek,” said it best: “Nobody wins a race they don’t want to be in.” Before you chase the latest deal, stop and ask yourself: does this fit my financial goals? Do I want appreciation, cash flow, or tax benefits? Getting clear on your race ensures you’re running in the right direction.
2. Invest in Your Education Before the Deal
Education is the ultimate investment. Think about this: the smartest investors spend hundreds of thousands on masterminds, coaching, and mentorship. Why? Because they’re buying decades of experience in a matter of months. If you’re not willing to invest in learning, you’re leaving yourself vulnerable to mistakes that seasoned investors already know how to avoid.
Our Passive Income Mastermind is a living example of this. Every week, we see members transforming into better investors. It’s not magic—it’s the power of community and education.
3. Beware of the “Easy Button”
Here’s a secret most people don’t realize: the easiest, mass-market investments often yield average, “mass-market” results. Social media influencers might hype up flashy deals, but the truth is that real returns often require deeper insight and effort. As Sharan Srivatsaa puts it, “If it’s passive for you, it’s active for someone else.” Don’t fall for shortcuts. Instead, focus on understanding the value chain and the work behind the scenes.
4. Failing Forward is Part of the Game
Here’s a secret that most investors won’t openly share: Everyone loses money at some point. Yes, even the greats. What separates successful investors from the rest is their ability to learn from those losses and keep going. Quitting after a setback only sends you back to square one—a place you probably weren’t happy with to begin with.
One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that losses aren’t the end; they’re stepping stones. Each misstep teaches you something new, sharpens your decision-making, and makes you a stronger investor.
5. The Power of Partnerships
Investing doesn’t have to be a solo sport. In fact, it’s often better when it’s a team effort. Partnering with others allows you to combine strengths and mitigate weaknesses. As Sharan says, “Don’t work on your weaknesses; you’ll only end up with strong weaknesses.” Instead, surround yourself with people who excel in areas you don’t.
Whether you’re a numbers whiz, a market expert, or a natural networker, there’s a role for everyone in a well-rounded investment team. Tools like TribeVest make it easier than ever to collaborate on deals and share both the risks and the rewards.
6. Your First Step Doesn’t Have to Be Big
You don’t need millions to get started. Your first investment could be small—even a $5,000 deal can teach you invaluable lessons. The sooner you start, the faster you’ll build the muscle memory of investing.
Take Sharan’s story, for example. He began by managing a mock $10,000 stock portfolio as a teenager. The experience gave him a feel for market movements and laid the groundwork for his future success. Even if you’re not ready to invest real money, you can start by simulating the process and gaining those all-important reps.
7. Have the Courage to Say “No”
One of the biggest challenges for investors is saying “no” to deals that don’t align with their goals. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to justify your decision. A simple, “This doesn’t fit our family’s investment goals right now,” is enough. Leave the door open for future opportunities, but don’t feel pressured to jump into something that doesn’t feel right.
8. Think Like an Investor
This might sound obvious, but you need to see yourself as an investor. That shift in mindset is crucial. Too often, people delegate the “investing” role to others, assuming they’re not qualified. But the truth is, you are. When you embrace your identity as an investor, you start to ask better questions, seek better deals, and gain better results.
As Nelson Nash, the founder of the Infinite Banking Concept, said: “When you know what’s going on, you’ll know what to do.” And the fastest way to know what’s going on? Surround yourself with experienced investors.
If you take one thing away from this, let it be this: investing isn’t about finding the perfect deal—it’s about becoming the kind of person who creates opportunities, learns from mistakes, and grows through partnerships. The secrets aren’t really secrets at all—they’re strategies you can learn and apply.
Ready to take the next step? Join our Passive Income Mastermind and surround yourself with people whose current reality matches your aspirations. Let their experience and insights guide you to your next breakthrough.
You’re not just an investor; you’re building a legacy. Let’s make it a great one.
