Hello everyone! Have you ever made an investment that felt right in your heart, even if it didn’t yield immediate financial returns?
In today’s blog, we’ll explore a refreshing perspective on value—“Return on Intention” (ROI²). This modern take on return isn’t just about dollars and cents.
It’s about aligning your money with your meaning. Let’s walk through what it really means to invest with intention, and how this mindset can reshape your financial journey.
What is Return on Intention?
Return on Intention (ROI²) is a progressive way of thinking about investments—not solely in terms of financial yield, but also in how aligned they are with your personal goals, values, and impact.
While traditional ROI measures profit, ROI² considers emotional satisfaction, ethical alignment, and long-term contribution. This might mean investing in clean energy because you care about the planet,
or funding a local business that uplifts your community.
It's about asking yourself: "Does this investment reflect who I am and what I believe in?"
If the answer is yes, then the return goes far beyond numbers.
Why Traditional ROI is No Longer Enough
Traditional ROI, while essential, often lacks the depth to assess the full spectrum of an investment’s impact.
Here’s why it's falling short:
- It only looks at short-term gains. This ignores sustainable, long-view growth rooted in intention.
- It ignores personal fulfillment. You might be financially winning but emotionally empty.
- It overlooks social and environmental consequences. Is that high-earning stock helping or harming the world?
ROI² acknowledges that investors today want more than money—they want meaning. It's an evolution driven by socially conscious investors, millennials, and purpose-driven entrepreneurs.
Real Examples of Intention-Based Investments
Let’s look at how Return on Intention plays out in real life.
- Green Bonds: Investors buy bonds from governments and corporations to support environmental projects—even if the yield is modest.
- Impact Startups: Supporting early-stage startups focused on mental health, education, or sustainable farming.
- Community Funds: Contributing to local businesses or initiatives because you believe in their mission, not just their returns.
These investments aren’t made just for profit—they’re made to build a legacy. They reflect a deep alignment between money and personal mission.
How to Measure Return on Intention
Measuring ROI² isn’t always straightforward, but it’s absolutely possible with a thoughtful approach. Here's how:
| Metric | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Value Alignment Score | How closely does the investment align with your core values? | Rating clean energy investment 9/10 for environmental alignment |
| Community Impact | Does it uplift communities or create jobs? | Investing in a rural co-op that supports 200+ farmers |
| Emotional ROI | Do you feel proud, fulfilled, and connected to your investment? | You feel inspired every time you talk about it |
Tips to Align Your Portfolio with Purpose
Want to get started with intentional investing? Here are practical tips to guide your journey:
- Define your core values. Know what you care about—climate, education, equity, etc.
- Research impact-driven funds. Look for ESG or B-Corp certified investments.
- Use digital tools. Platforms like Ethic or OpenInvest help screen for intention-aligned assets.
- Start small and reflect. Begin with a modest portion and assess how it makes you feel over time.
- Talk to a values-first advisor. Not all advisors prioritize this—find one who does.
Remember, every dollar you invest is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in.
FAQ: Common Questions about ROI²
What is the difference between ROI and ROI²?
ROI focuses on financial return. ROI² adds emotional and ethical returns to the equation.
Can intention-based investments be profitable?
Yes! Many socially conscious investments perform competitively while creating positive change.
How do I know if an investment aligns with my values?
Start by clearly identifying your values, then screen investments based on their mission and impact.
Are there risks with ROI² investing?
As with all investing, yes—but you gain non-financial returns that may outweigh short-term losses.
Is this approach only for wealthy investors?
No. Anyone can begin aligning their money with their values, regardless of budget.
Where can I learn more about this?
There are many resources, communities, and courses focused on purpose-driven investing. See below!
Final Thoughts
Thank you for exploring this new lens of investment with me. In a world where numbers often dominate decisions, it’s empowering to choose investments that resonate with our deeper intentions.
Whether you're starting small or rethinking your entire portfolio, remember—investing with purpose is investing with power. Let your heart guide your financial strategy, and you’ll find returns that truly matter.
댓글 쓰기