Man On The Street: Ryan Smuts

Find out what makes the Kiwi man tick, and maybe even the meaning of life. Bold promise I know but you never know.

Ryan Smuts

Age: 25

Occupation: Mortgage Adviser

What are the top three things on your bucket list?

Only three?! In no real order;

Helping as many people as I can would be up there. I want to get into some sort of public speaking – allowing people to see what they’re capable of through the use of words.

I want to visit as many countries with ancient history (legends or fact) that relate to that place. Like Greece, China, Egypt, India, etc. I want to see in real life, the stories we were told as kids.

Get married and have kids.

How do you stay motivated?

Early nights, lots of veggies, even more audiotapes and books, and exercise.

If you didn’t need money, what would you do?

Probably what I’m doing now. If I won lotto, I’d probably take a break for about 2-3 weeks then come back to work. I love the people I work with, which as far as I can tell by talking to others, can be incredibly hard to find. I was fortunate to find this early. It’s also rewarding having a job helping people into property (first homes) or building their wealth (investment properties).

What is the secret to success?

Consistent self-discipline and patience. Discipline is doing the things you know you should do when you know you should do them, and it comes from inside (self). The little voice that says “it doesn’t matter” or “you can do it tomorrow” is the one you need to get rid of. Do it now, do it to the best of your ability, and try to do it with a smile.

What is the best bit of advice, or quote, that resonates with you?

A lot of what Jim Rohn has taught in audiotapes and books really stuck with me from the day I began listening and reading. I’ve never been the same since. My favourite would be:

“For things to change for you, you have to change”. If you don’t like the way things are, change them – you’re not a tree. It may not be instantly better or different, but immediately you can begin the process of life change purely by making a decision.

What’s your favourite restaurant?

About 4-5 months ago I became vegan so I am still learning a whole lot about this and don’t really have a favourite. Prior to this it was Ebisu, I’m a huge fan of Japanese!