3 Smart Strategies to Build a Million-Dollar Investment Portfolio

Advisor May 1, 2025

Building wealth doesn’t require hitting the lottery or having a six-figure salary. Sometimes, it starts with discipline, clear planning, and a willingness to think long-term. Financial expert Bola Sokunbi is living proof. Her journey from a modest salary to a seven-figure investment portfolio shows that with the right mindset and strategy, it’s possible to thrive—even when the economy doesn’t.

Here’s a closer look at how she turned consistent saving and smart investing into real results, and the key tactics that helped her grow her wealth through uncertain financial times.

Start Building a Strong Financial Foundation With Savings

Back in 2004, Sokunbi had just graduated from college and was earning $54,000 annually. Within just three years, she managed to save $100,000. That wasn’t luck—it was intentional. She prioritized saving, watched her spending, and focused on living below her means. Then the 2007 recession hit.

While many pulled their money out of the market, she made a different choice. Influenced by the personal finance book “Smart Women Finish Rich,” she saw the market downturn as an opportunity, not a setback. As she put it, “It felt like everything was on sale. I wasn’t using that money anytime soon, so I kept investing. I was more interested in the long game than reacting to fear.”

Her choice paid off, and she kept that momentum going for years to come.

Instagram | bolasokunbi | By prioritizing savings and living frugally, Sokunbi reached $100,000 in three years after earning $54,000.

Tactic 1: Build a Cash Buffer Before Investing

Having investments is important, but being able to access cash in emergencies matters even more. Sokunbi made it a rule to never invest money she might need quickly.

Before she left her full-time job in 2017 to pursue her business full-time, she saved 18 months’ worth of living expenses. That gave her confidence and flexibility. Her strategy? Create a savings buffer that covers essentials like:

– Rent or mortgage
– Food and groceries
– Childcare costs
– Medical expenses
– Unexpected repairs

For better control, she recommends using a separate savings account that’s not easily accessible. Setting up automated payroll transfers into that account helped keep her on track.

Tactic 2: Diversify Your Income With Side Hustles

Even with a full-time job, having additional sources of income can make a big difference. Sokunbi is a big believer in side hustles—not just for the money, but for the options they create.

She sold baby gear her twins had outgrown, ran a successful photography business, and even opened a bridal retail shop. Later, she added speaking engagements and book writing to her income stream.

As she puts it, “You don’t have to be a business expert to make extra money. Get creative and work with what you have.” That mindset helped her stay afloat even when her main job income wasn’t enough or during periods of transition.

Tactic 3: Invest With a Diversified Portfolio

Freepik | Bola Sokunbi implemented Bogle’s three-fund strategy, holding US stocks, bonds, and international shares.

A key part of her long-term investment growth came from understanding and applying diversification. Inspired by John Bogle’s simple investment philosophy, she followed the three-fund portfolio model:

– US stocks
– US bonds
– International stocks

This setup allowed her to spread risk while still capturing growth across various industries. She also added some individual stocks—mostly from brands she personally used—and explored other opportunities like real estate and angel investing.

Having a broad mix meant that even if one area of the market dropped, others could help balance it out.

Creating Change Through Financial Education

Sokunbi didn’t just stop at growing her own portfolio. She launched her company with a clear mission: shift the way women—especially Black women—talk about and manage their money.

Through her platform and books, she’s helped countless others see that financial independence is possible, regardless of background or income level.

Key Lessons for Growing Your Investments

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your finances, these takeaways can help:

1. Always start with savings. A strong emergency fund gives you freedom and reduces financial anxiety.
2. Use extra time or skills to earn more. Even small side gigs can add up.
3. Invest smart, not fast. Focus on long-term gains and don’t let panic drive your decisions.
4. Keep learning. Sokunbi constantly reads and researches. Staying informed helped her make smarter investment choices.

Growing a portfolio from $100,000 to over $1 million didn’t happen overnight. But by being consistent, thoughtful, and willing to think outside the box, Sokunbi turned everyday habits into extraordinary results.

Her story is proof that the right investment strategy, backed by solid financial habits and a strong mindset, can carry you through even the toughest economic times.