I though this was only, in fact, a city thing, but I’ve found even in small, rural communities, people are weirded out by it. In fact, I’d say their *more* guarded. Interesting.

Thanks for this.

It’s only human, especially at your age, to decide, THIS TIME I’m going to do it right - without realizing that many more mistakes remain to be learned from.

I suggest you read: CAPITAL IDEAS by Peter Bernstein, FOOLED BY RANDOMNESS by Nassim Nicholas Taleb and A RANDOM WALK DOWN WALL STREET (latest edition) by Burton Malkiel.

If you don’t get the message after reading them, read them again until you do:

It’s nearly impossible to beat the market. It’s far easier just to profit from joining the market.

You’ve made the whole process extremely complicated. You won’t keep that up for long. It’s ridiculous. You have a business to run, traveling to enjoy, a life, relationships, and on and on.

Do set up your accounts. Take advantage of IRAs or whatever you qualify for. Buy broad stock index funds such as Vanguard’s S&P 500.

Live within your means and put all money you can into that fund.

Then throw away that checklist and get on with your life.

Spend your time either:

Making more money through your career and business with which to invest (the more you invest, the bigger your portfolio)

Enjoying life

In a few years you’ll thank me. I’m saving you hundreds of hours of wasted time and making you tens of thousands (at least) additional money.

Colony Financial

A GREAT job and a GREAT son. Mom would be very proud of you. Keep up the GREAT work.

I’m so proud of you and your brother.

Love,
Your Dad