Hi all!

As you can tell by being in this forum, and obviously by the subject line, I am new to the game. I have been wanting to get more involved in REI for some time now. I had bought a few books a couple years back which detailed things like beginning the journey, foreclosures, rentals, etc. etc. I had a couple things happen, who doesn't (that is why its called life)...but the short to the point is that I was thrown off my path. I am now back in a place where I can continue my journey.

First, I would like to talk about the "Why" aspect of getting into REI. Inside I have a drive much like others, in that, I don't always want to work for "The Man" or I don't want to have to work for "The Man" the rest of my life. I would like to reach some type of financial independence that allows me to live my life to the fullest, create something that is there for my children when it is time for me to leave this world, and to provide me the means to give back in a more impactful way for others.

Next, besides "Why", I think the "Why haven't I" deserves some time and has credence for us all, so I want to make sure I state that as well. I haven't moved forward or taken any risks, thus far, out of fear. Plain and simple. I make a good wage and live in a nice house. Everything I have I worked hard for. My children are loved and taken care of. My wife and kids have nothing to worry about at this point. It is nice to have those assurances and stability. I don't want to upset the nature or harmony that I currently live in... However, if you dream small, you never achieve great things or you limit yourself to the lesser of things. I get it... No risk, no reward. The bigger the risk, the bigger the reward. I needed time to overcome, somewhat, the paralyzing fear that has kept me from delving deeper into the unknown. I am still scared as hell but I need that to be a motivator and not a crippling inhibitor.

My goals... I have roughly 15 years to work before I can retire. I am in my early 40's right now. Getting younger is not an option. Life isn't going to get easier neither. It is time I take the plunge and get involved. So, like I said, I have roughly 15 years before I can retire. I want to get something established within that timeframe, so when I do retire...I can have something that is relatively stable and I am not having to put in the ton of time then to get things off the ground at that point. Everything should be in place for me to provide more for those I love which will include more of my time.

I look forward to the networking and relationship building here on Biggerpockets.com. One thing I learned from my time in the United States Marine Corps is that I am not an Army of One (inter-service banter there...I do have the utmost respect for all of us who have served our great nation). I recognize that I will need a team to be successful. Hey, if I am in a team and I am successful, that means that those on the team will be successful as well, and who doesn't like the sound of that? That is one of my biggest takeaways of my life's lessons or experiences... We need each other.

So, to close, I am new with drive and vigor. I have goals and dreams. I am not deterred easily and look to overcome any and all obstacles that are going to present themselves because they will. I understand that, while being a sponge and soaking up all the information I can does wonders, it is not the end all be all for this journey. I have to get out there and start hustling, putting in my time and effort, as well as simply making it happen. I hope to have a great time doing this with good people on either side of me sharing in the experience. I look forward to any and all comments left in response to this post. Heck, that is why I am here...networking and relationship building (not to mention the education).

Thanks for taking the time to read this and respond! Have a great day...

Jason