What Capitalism Represents
Jul 15, 2026
All right folks, let’s talk a little bit about the large scale today. We are going to apply this to the appraisal business, of course, but I want to talk to you about the general concept, the idea, and the financial strategy of capitalism.
I’m under no illusion that capitalism is perfect. It’s not. There are problems. In fact, the United States is not truly a capitalist country. We do not live the true philosophy and spirit of capitalism with the feds, inflation, printing money, taxation, rules, and regulations. But it still represents one of the most capitalistic frameworks out there.
The Drive to Succeed
I recently had a deep conversation about the differences between the US and Norway. In Norway, the system is built more on equalism. People are content, but there is less motivation to get ahead. If you want to be an entrepreneur, that kind of socialistic structure might not be the place for you because there’s not a lot of incentive.
Capitalism represents motivation. It represents the idea that you can succeed and that there is a pathway from where you are to where you want to be. When you look at the crazy advances in our world—space exploration, AI, medical research, and technology—they heavily come from a system that rewards success.
Finding Your Pathway
Now, this entrepreneurial drive is not for everybody, and that is completely okay. Even among my own kids, I see different motivations. Some want to open businesses, while others want to do social work or run the family farm.
The main point is that capitalism gives you the personal freedom and liberty to choose your own path. Despite the regulations, this is still the best place in the world to develop, grow, and succeed in business.
And yes, appraisers, that means you. Success doesn't have to mean running a million-dollar company with dozens of employees. If your vision of success is working five days a week, shutting things down at 5:00 PM to be with your family, and doing five high-quality reports a week instead of twenty-five, this system allows you to build exactly that. It's all about your personal ability and your chance to create the life you want.
Check out The Appraiser Coach Podcast for more info on this topic:
