I recently read this poem by Max Ehrmann, courtesy of James Clear's newsletter.

I was reminded of David Gardner's (Motley Fool co-founder) penchant for investing in stocks that spark joy and how he often says to "build a portfolio that reflects your best vision for the future."

"You are a child of the universe,

no less than the trees and the stars;

you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you,

no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

​

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,

it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful.

Strive to be happy."

I know this is a bit random, but those last two lines were an excellent way for me to remember to focus on the bigger game at hand: do the stocks I buy help make the world a better place?

Outperformance is fun, but what am I really investing in these stocks for?

When it's the year 2100, and I'm gone, and my daughter is in her 80s, will she be proud of what I invested in for both of us along the way?

I know this probably applies to more consumer-facing companies than industrials or energy, but it is still interesting for me to think about.

Curious to know how important it is to you all to invest in stocks that can generate happiness, spark joy, and/or improve the world.

Thanks as always for reading. 🙏