As an engineer, I like to break down and reconnect parts, ideas, and systems. I started out by buying totaled cars and selling parts on the internet way back in 1998. As a 21-year old, I wanted to make extra money without leaving my full-time job. And getting a second part-time job was out of the question because as you know, my job’s already physically demanding.

Fast forward 2007, my wife and I got married. We struggled after buying our first house.

80% of investors, including your financial planner and your mother will tell you to invest in stocks. And while it’s true that you can somewhat earn a “passive income” out of dividends, notes, and bonds – I will never park my hard-earned cash anywhere near the stocks.