Investing Is a Mindset

By Derek Kartchner | Gila Insurance

I have a lot of thoughts about the recent election. But this article isn’t about that—or at least, not exactly. What I want to talk about is what I’ve observed in the last several weeks after the. As someone who provides insurance to a wide array of investors, I get a front-row to how they think, plan, and act.

When I meet with investors, the state of the market is always a hot topic of discussion. Investors share their plans, their dreams, and their strategies. I listen, nod, and occasionally chime in about risk management and insurance—after all, that’s my bread and butter.

What strikes me most is the consistency of their thoughts and actions. Sure, they might have different strategies or approaches, but the mindset is often remarkably similar. Their words and actions reflect their inner beliefs. As the saying goes, “If you think you can, or if you think you can’t, you’re right.” It may sound like a cliché, but it holds a lot of truth.

Over the past year and a half, I’ve noticed a cautious and gloomy mood among many investors. Conversations often sound the same: “There are no deals,” “Interest rates are too high,” and “Nothing pencils out.” Yet, amidst the negativity, there are always a few investors who manage to thrive.

Take my good friend, for example. Despite the challenges, he’s added three properties to his portfolio this year. Did he have to adjust his strategy and tactics? Absolutely. But he refused to let external factors deter him from his goals.

Recently, I’ve noticed a shift. In the last few weeks, we’ve written policies on more investment properties than we have in months. This isn’t necessarily a market indicator—just a reflection of my small, anecdotal sample—but the tone has changed. Suddenly, deals that seemed impossible were getting done. Success, once out of reach, now feels attainable. Has the market really changed? Not really. Have interest rates dropped like a rock? No - still around 7%. So, what changed? Mindset.

And so, I ask: What is your mindset? What’s really holding you back? Is it the market? Or is it your perspective? I believe we were born to create. Each of us has a unique skill or ability to bring something new into the world. Apply that to real estate. Find your niche, embrace your creativity, and move forward with confidence. Because no matter what’s happening externally, the most powerful tool you have is your mindset.