"Siempre tenga suficiente efectivo a mano para aprovechar las oportunidades."

The heart of this quote is about being prepared. You never know when an amazing opportunity might come knocking at your door, and if you don't have the resources to seize it, you could miss out on something great. It's about having a safety net, a stash of cash, so when life throws you a golden chance—whether it’s a business deal, a discounted property, or even an emergency—you’re ready.

Think back to the Great Depression in the 1930s. Many people lost everything because they didn't have reserves. Banks failed, jobs disappeared, and those who lived paycheck to paycheck were hit the hardest. But there were a few who had managed to save up a bit. They had cash—real, tangible money—that they could use to buy assets at rock-bottom prices, invest in new ventures, or simply survive without falling into debt. It’s a classic example that shows why having cash on hand can be a game-changer.

Let’s bring it to a personal level. Imagine you’ve been dreaming about opening your own bakery. You’ve got the recipes, you’ve got the passion, but you’re waiting for the perfect location. One day, you discover that a small café in your neighborhood is closing down. They’re selling the place fully equipped for a fraction of its value. If you’ve been smart about saving, you can swoop in and grab that opportunity. If you haven’t, well, you’re left watching someone else live your dream.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by setting aside a portion of your income each month. It doesn’t have to be a huge amount, just something manageable. Treat it like a non-negotiable expense. This isn’t your emergency fund—that’s different. This is your ‘opportunity fund’. Keep it liquid, meaning it’s accessible when you need it, but not so easily accessible that you’re tempted to dip into it for non-essential things.

Let me tell you about my friend, Jake. Jake was always talking about starting his own tech startup, but he never seemed to get around to it. Instead of saving, he spent money on the latest gadgets and weekend trips. One day, he stumbled upon an incredible opportunity—a small software company was looking for a buyer because the owner wanted to retire early. The price was unbelievably low considering the potential. Jake’s dream was right there, but he didn’t have the funds. He tried to scramble and get a loan, but it was too late. Someone else bought it, and Jake missed out.

Now, think about yourself. Imagine you're out for a walk and you see a “For Sale” sign on your dream house, or you hear about an investment that aligns perfectly with your goals. If you’ve been disciplined and have that cache of cash, you can make a move. If not, you’re left on the sidelines.

In a nutshell, always being ready means you've got the power to act when opportunity strikes. So, start building that stash today. It might just be the thing that turns your dreams into reality.