Think About Yourself Before Investing

The individual temperament of the investor is quite important. Some people worry about any risks, regardless of size; some worry about things that might happen and could cause disaster. Such persons should place their funds in investments that promise the highest degree of safety, such as good-quality bonds; they would never be happy otherwise. In the field of investment, as in all other cases where risks must be assumed, there is no place for the man who tortures himself when he takes them. Peace of mind is far more important!

Economic status determines in advance the funds that the investor may have available. Some occupations may allow only a modest degree of financial improvement throughout life, which will, in turn, limit the range of one's investments. Other occupations may place no obstacles in the way of continual financial gain, coupled with still greater future possibilities in the field of investment. A wealthy individual will be concerned over the taxation factors, as much even as he may be with the income itself, while those of more modest means will be satisfied with an entirely different set of objectives in setting up their financial program.

One other important aspect should not be over looked. This is the education, background, and general understanding of financial matters. To have an optimum amount of these is, of course, desirable, but it does not follow that their lack will make it impossible to become a successful investor. If Mr. J. Q. Citizen is willing to educate himself patiently in this field, he may expect to enjoy a reasonable degree of success. Nevertheless, "fools rush in where angels fear to tread" is a saying long to be remembered by any prospective investor. Education, training, and experience may be had by anyone who has the determination and the patience, and they will assuredly produce results. Adult-education courses may help, and most good brokerage houses are willing and eager to help a prospective client. Many of them distribute helpful material for the asking, and there is a very considerable literature in the field.