Capturing Value

I stumbled across an interesting phrase while perusing my old stack of books from Better World Books. ‘Capturing Value’ is at the core of many investors’ criteria for their investment portfolios. They know that enhancements, refinements and expanding market share can all add to the bottom line.

It can come in many different forms but simply stated, it is the improvement of the core values of a product or service (almost any kind of investment) to increase its value or worth. I think that could be a great metaphor for life.

The phrase is often used in the tech world to encapsulate enhancing current operations, making things simpler, etc. Mark Zuckerberg was able to do it with ‘Facebook’ even though ‘My Space’ had already proven that concept and was firmly established on the internet. AOL was one of the first internet providers along with Netscape but was soon overshadowed by better, stronger competitors.

In the business world, adding customer service, ease of operation, etc. helps a business navigate the rough and tumble world of sales and marketing much better. I have a friend who has written a number of best-selling books about the customer experience with enhanced customer service. On a more personal level, I know the concept is valid and works wonders.

Over the years, I was able to capture more value in several apartment buildings and other real estate properties that I owned and managed. Surprisingly, it was seldom major remodeling that made the difference. Instead it was the little things that my tenants/customers appreciated.

I added enhancements to the properties that raised their value in the eyes of my tenants and kept turnover at a very low rate. As a property owner, a long term renter meant a steady rent check, a satisfied occupant and overall fewer problems. It also made for a more attractive investment property when the time came to sell.

I also thought this concept of adding value can speak volumes about one’s personal life. Finding value in everyday events in your life is not the onerous task it might seem to be. And it has nothing to do with your bank account, home and other real estate holdings or material goods. The simple things in life are usually free and right there for the taking/appreciating. You just have to be aware of it and take a look.

It could be as simple as a walk in the woods or trudging up a mountain trail.

It might mean taking the time to appreciate an early morning sunrise or a sunset that ends another day on the planet.

There are the little everyday things like flowery plants and the stillness of an early morning lake.

Grandchildren; anytime and anyplace.

For me, it was my own coffee and chat sessions that continued unabated even with eye surgery and baby-sitting duties. Those early morning rendezvous always included the intellectual sharing of facts, fables, fantasy and foolishness; all in the name of friendship.

Finally, it might include personal accomplishments in the arts, writing, the theater, gardening, and a multitude of other personal endeavors. Whatever it is that lifts your soul and gives purpose to your day is adding value to it.