A top investing educator recently shared insights on three common myths about making more money, starting with the belief that a higher salary automatically leads to greater happiness.
She explained that the more we earn, the more we convince ourselves that we need more. For instance, when someone is promoted to a managerial position, they might feel the need to revamp their wardrobe, upgrade their skincare, or invest in new makeup.
Instead of feeling satisfied with the progress between what we earn and what we think we need, that gap often continues to grow. The educator noted that wealthy individuals tend to have what she calls an “inconvenience buffer.” This means that as people accumulate wealth, they are better equipped to handle unexpected setbacks. For example, missing a flight may be a major problem for a student who can’t afford to book a new one, but a wealthier person can handle it with far less stress.
Essentially, it’s not the money itself that brings happiness, but the security and flexibility that come with having a financial cushion.
📈 Transforming $1,000 into Millions: Insights from DJIA Stocks
Investing in high-growth companies within the DJIA can yield remarkable returns. Here’s a closer look at how $1,000 invested in these companies decades ago would have appreciated over time.
1. Apple Inc. (AAPL)
- Current Stock Price (Sept 2025): $239.78
- Historical Milestone: In 2002, Apple was trading at approximately $0.33 per share.
- Growth Story: Apple’s transformation from a niche computer manufacturer to a global tech giant is a testament to visionary leadership and innovation. The introduction of products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad revolutionized consumer electronics, propelling Apple’s stock to new heights.
2. Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
- Current Stock Price (Sept 2025): $507.97
- Historical Milestone: In 1990, Microsoft’s stock was trading at around $0.09 per share (adjusted for splits).
- Growth Story: Under CEO Satya Nadella, Microsoft shifted its focus to cloud computing and artificial intelligence, leading to significant growth. The company’s Azure platform and AI initiatives have positioned it as a leader in the tech industry.
3. Nike (NKE)
- Current Stock Price (Sept 2025): $75.35
- Historical Milestone: In 1980, Nike went public at $0.18 per share (adjusted for splits).
- Growth Story: Nike’s commitment to innovation and marketing excellence has made it a global leader in athletic footwear and apparel. The company’s iconic “Just Do It” campaign and partnerships with athletes have solidified its brand presence worldwide.
4. Coca-Cola Co (KO)
- Current Stock Price (Sept 2025): $68.25
- Historical Milestone: In 1980, Coca-Cola’s stock was trading at approximately $0.50 per share (adjusted for splits).
- Growth Story: Coca-Cola’s consistent product innovation and global distribution network have made it one of the most recognized brands in the world. The company’s focus on marketing and brand loyalty has driven its long-term success.
📊 Visualizing the Growth: Stock Price Charts
To better understand the growth trajectories of these companies, let’s examine their stock price charts over the years.
Apple Inc. (AAPL)
Source: Macrotrends
Microsoft Corporation (MSFT)
Source: Macrotrends
Nike (NKE)
Source: Macrotrends
Coca-Cola Co (KO)
Source: Macrotrends
💡 Key Takeaways
- Long-Term Investment Pays Off: Consistent investment in high-quality companies over decades can yield substantial returns.
- Reinvest Dividends: Reinvesting dividends accelerates the compounding effect, significantly boosting portfolio growth.
- Diversify Your Portfolio: Investing in a mix of sectors reduces risk and enhances potential returns.
- Stay Informed: Regularly review and adjust your investment strategy to align with market changes and personal financial goals.
📈 Current Stock Prices (As of Sept 5, 2025)
Apple Inc (AAPL)
$239.78
+$1.21(+0.51%)Today
$239.71-$0.07(-0.03%)Pre-Market1D5D1M6MYTD1Y5Ymax
🧠 Final Thoughts
The journey of these companies underscores the importance of patience, strategic investment, and a long-term perspective. By investing in companies with strong fundamentals and growth potential, investors can build significant wealth over time. Remember, the stock market rewards those who are informed, disciplined, and forward-thinking.
