Simple Investment Moves That Last a Lifetime

09/02/25

Financial planning (like any planning) takes effort, requires strategizing and may need to be adjusted over time. If you feel behind or want to self-audit your progress though, here are a few simple investment moves to get you started. These will pay off for the rest of your life.

• Pay Your Future Self by Investing in a Retirement Account
  Someday you might not be able to work and will need income in retirement; your future self will thank you for saving today. Make it a habit to contribute part of every paycheck toward your future. If your employer offers a 401(k) match, make that your first investment. See this article for ideas on what order to invest in what type of retirement accounts.

• Choose and Track Your Investments - or Hire Someone Who Will
  It’s not enough to contribute to a retirement account and hope for the best. You have potentially thousands of investment options within each type of account. If you don’t have the time, knowledge, or discipline to choose/manage your own investments, you’re doing yourself a disservice by doing it alone. I continue to take on new clients and would love to talk with you!

* A good financial advisor can help you avoid costly mistakes, keep you calm while the rest of the world panics and keep your plan on track. It’s very possible that you’re missing out on more gains by not hiring an advisor.*

• Give Your Future Self A Raise When Your Current Self Gets One
  If your company’s revenue grows or your employer gives you a raise, compensate your future self by increasing your retirement contribution amount.

• Don’t Procrastinate
  If there's a financial task you need to handle, do it. Many investors have missed investment growth simply because they delayed action, like rolling over a 401(k) or starting a Roth IRA, because it seems tedious. But the truth is, it’s usually easier and quicker than you think. And if you have a good advisor, they’ll follow up with you, guide you through the process, and keep you accountable.

• Set Specific Goals
  Give your money direction. Whether it’s saving $20,000 for a car, $5,000 in your checking account, or $3,000 to donate to your church or favorite charity, having clear goals helps you track each dollar and keeps you focused and motivated. If you don’t give your money direction, it will disappear faster than you think.

*Do not use this as advice about your specific situation. Please contact me to talk about your specific situation. You are never charged for meetings or advice.