Start Investing Today

I am not a financial advisor or professional and this is intended for information and education. I may receive commission from links on this page.

Investing is for everyone

There are many benefits to learning to invest in the stock market. Obviously, there is potential financial gain but there are other benefits like:

  • Owning a part of a company you believe in

  • Learning to do better research

  • Understanding the economy

  • Increasing business acumen

  • Creating an extra savings account

The biggest rule of thumb when you begin is NOT to invest money you cannot afford to lose. Even the most sound investments are subject to unexpected volatility.

Are stocks sound investments?

When done correctly, investing in the stock market can be a sound way to grow your money over time. Be cautious of get rich quick with the stock market types of offers. There are many resources online and through professional advisors that can offer advice on keeping your portfolio diverse, dividend reinvestment, EFTs, and other ways to be successful in the long-term.

You can see from the chart below that since the 1950s, the S&P 500 has grown exponentially.

Where do I begin?

There are several platforms out there to get you started. The two most popular among retail investors are Robinhood and Webull.

Robinhood will give you (and me) free stock if you use this link. Despite the controversy (you can read here) Robinhood remains one of the most popular trading platforms due to its user friendly interface.


Webull also gives you free stock when you join and make your first deposit. Feel free to use my referral link to sign up. Webull's interface can be a bit intimidating if you are unfamiliar with reading complex charts but it is worth the learning curve to have an additional option to trade. Once you get the hang of it, you can use their nifty tools to gather information and analyze potential investments.


Need a little help? Many people use automated software to help inform their decisions on which stocks to purchase. Check out Beat the Market and get a free tool to get you started.

Begin with the end in mind

If you are familiar with the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, then you recognize the second habit--begin with the end in mind. Whether you are planning your career, finances, or a family vacation, the first step is to have a clear vision of the outcome so you can set the proper direction.

Robinhood is not my main investment vehicle but I use it to learn about trends and gain real world experience that help me make better decisions with my other stock portfolios.

I can't afford to lose money on stocks

It never feels good to lose money, especially if you started saving for retirement later in your career or if you have limited funds. Think about your risk tolerance before you begin. Larger assets like a retirement fund should be managed by a professional. Remember to only invest what you can afford to lose.

When I first started in 2017, I began small and did lots of research. There are lots of credible sources out there to find information about companies. Always be sure to DYOR (Do your own research) before investing. I made lots of mistakes along the way but they were all learning and growth moments. DISCLAIMER: Investments like my 401K and other retirement accounts are professionally managed. For me investing is a hobby and learning opportunity that pays off when done properly.

You don't have to take big risks to get started on Robinhood or Webull.


⚠️⚠️⚠️Caution⚠️⚠️⚠️

Robinhood has a user-friendly platform that is easy to navigate. It is so user-friendly that the company has been accused of misleading novice investors by gamifying their platform. Gamified platforms encourage user engagement and can give a feeling on non-reality so be careful. In 2020 Robinhood was fined by the SEC for these practices but others argue that it is a platform that democratizes the market and makes trading and investment education accessible to the masses however that sentiment tarnished when Robinhood's relationship to Citadel was brought to light.

BOTTOM LINE: Beware and exercise good judgement as you would in other matters. The goal is to become and investor not a gambler.


This information should not be used as financial advice and I am not an investment professional. This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and you should always seek professional advice before investing.