Editorial: The Long Road to Something Worth the Wait

You’re young, just beginning to earn your place in the world. A regular paycheck is finally landing in your account, and the thought of a sleek, shiny car—one that makes a statement—is understandably alluring. It feels like a declaration of independence, maybe even success. But here’s a quiet truth many don’t say aloud: real financial power often looks nothing like flash. It’s quieter. More deliberate. And it tends to take the long way around.

Let’s imagine two roads:
One leads to a brand-new $50,000 car that depreciates the moment it leaves the lot. It’s nice—sure—but the monthly payments, insurance, maintenance, and gas chip away at your freedom. That car becomes the silent reason you say "no" to opportunities, travel, or investments.

The other road? It's slower. It starts with a $3,000–$6,000 used car that runs, isn’t fancy, but gets you where you need to go. That choice says something different: “I’m playing the long game.” That’s where real stories begin.

Take Warren Buffett, for example. One of the wealthiest people alive, yet he still lives in the modest home he bought in 1958 and has often driven used cars. Not because he can’t afford more—but because he never confused status with value.

Or consider Jay Leno, famed comedian and car enthusiast. When he was just starting out, he lived on his stand-up comedy income and banked his TV earnings. That frugality let him pursue his real passion: collecting over 180 classic vehicles, many of which he purchased at opportune times because he wasn’t buried in debt or distracted by short-term wants.

There’s also the story of Peter Mullin, a successful businessman who built one of the finest car collections in the world, including rare Bugattis and Talbot-Lagos. In his early years, Mullin lived well below his means and reinvested patiently. His reward? A garage full of rolling art that few could dream of owning.

They didn't get there by buying brand-new cars when they were just starting out—they got there by valuing time over image, and long-term passion over fleeting pride.

So, if you dream of owning a car that turns heads—not just at the intersection, but in museums and collector shows—don’t rush. Use your money as a tool, not a trophy. Choose a reliable commuter now that costs little and runs long. Invest the savings. Learn about compound interest. Maybe start a side hustle. Stack small decisions in your favor.

One day, while your peers trade in their depreciated daily drivers for slightly newer models (again and again), you might find yourself test-driving that rare Porsche 356, or that mint '67 Mustang Fastback—not because you need to show off, but because you waited, planned, and earned it the old-fashioned way.

The long road might not shine as bright in the beginning—but it leads to places worth arriving at.

Cheers,

Mike

Founder | VelocityXperience