Many people assume that success in investing is the result of brilliance. Success is, in fact, the product of process (the systematic application of principles) and discipline.

Magazine
Fall/Winter 1999

John Bachmann '61
Managing Principal, Edward Jones

Personally, what is the most meaningful life lesson you have taken from your vocation or avocation?

You must have clear vision and principles. If all about one is changing, failure to know who you are, what you believe, and how you see the future will cause every change to seem reasonable or vitally important. One needs to know what change to embrace and what to ignore.

In your experience, what is the greatest misconception the public has about your vocation (or field of study) or the people in that vocation?

Many people assume that success in investing is the result of brilliance. Success is, in fact, the product of process (the systematic application of principles) and discipline.

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