Reflections on Growth, Legacy, and the Journey of Life

Dawn rises, and the world is still. It’s a moment of quiet clarity, one I cherish deeply—a time to engage in the daily inner battle that has shaped my life and career. Over the years, I’ve found success, not by chasing wealth for wealth's sake, but by enduring the crucible of challenge and transformation. True success, as I’ve come to understand, is born from adversity. It’s the scars and lessons that make the journey worthwhile, not just the results.

Would I be proud of my achievements if they came without effort—like a lottery win or an inherited fortune? No, I wouldn’t. The value lies in the struggle, in the process of becoming. Hardship has a way of shaping us, sharpening our minds and fortifying our resolve. For me, building businesses, mentoring brokers, and navigating the volatile currents of the Australian mortgage broking industry have been my proving grounds.

As I reflect, I’m drawn to the simplicity of my early inspirations: a sense of purpose, a commitment to craft, and the pursuit of harmony. Like a hunter, a warrior, or a guardian, I’ve sought to provide and protect—not just for myself, but for my family, my colleagues, and the wider industry. Even now, that philosophy remains my compass.

Wealth matters—it brings security and comfort—but it doesn’t define me. My focus is on building something enduring, creating a legacy that outlasts me. When my time here is done, the material wealth will pass on to others, but the impact of my work, the lives I’ve touched, and the lessons I’ve shared will remain.

The mind, I’ve learned, is the ultimate battlefield. When the mind is strong, the body follows, and life itself becomes a series of opportunities to grow through challenge. This is why I embrace discomfort; it’s a necessary counterpart to comfort. Without pain, there is no progress. Without effort, there is no achievement.

My journey has been anything but conventional. From mortgage broking to business coaching, I’ve chosen paths that resonate with my inner values, not the expectations of others. The industry can be relentless, but it’s the relentlessness that drives me. Challenges aren’t setbacks—they’re the waves I ride, the mountains I climb, and the fuel that powers me forward.

I often remind those I mentor: the road isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Commit to it not because it’s comfortable, but because it’s yours. Don’t let the noise of external opinions drown out your inner voice. In the quiet moments of self-reflection, ask yourself: Am I living in alignment with who I want to become?

For me, the answer lies in continual growth. Whether it’s pushing through a tough financial period, enduring personal trials, or mentoring others on their own paths, every step shapes me. The journey isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.

As dawn breaks each day, I recommit to this life of purpose and passion. It’s not for everyone, and I don’t expect it to be. But for those who resonate with this path, know this: life is a practice, not a performance. It’s the doing, the striving, and the enduring that create meaning.

I’ll close with this thought: let your actions define you. Let your journey speak louder than any external measure of success. And when you look in the mirror, let the person staring back be someone you’re proud to call yourself.

—Ash Playsted