Investing philosophy & basics

When I first started investing I never had a true guide or steadfast strategy. Maybe I thought I had one, but really I just flipped between no strategy and the hottest takes. This cost me alot of time and money, but ultimately I learned and found my own way. I am by no means financially free, but I am confident in my strategy and "on the path" as JL Collins or other FIRE-persuaded people might call it.

I call myself a dividend investor. I mainly invest in ETFs and dividend stocks. I like the cashflow, as it provides a sense of resilience and comfort. It also adds a element of progression that I feel is easily digested and helps me look ahead.

Because my own investing journey started out going in every direction, I wish I could help those starting out to find their own strategy faster and with fewer mistakes. Whether you go with value, index funds or tech and growth, just keeping to a strategy is key! It is said alot of people give up after they fail or their investments don't work out at first. I am of the opinion that everyone has to try themselves at first. Failing and losing money are very good lessons for becoming better at investing, if you just keep learning from your mistakes. In an ideal world you would stick to your investment strategy and never lose a dime, but losing a little money from bad choices and learning alot is also good...

For anyone starting with investing, I suggest: 

• First save for an emergency fund that you feel comforable with, if you lose your job. For example two or three monthly paychecks in a savings account.

• Write down your own investment strategy, define the purpose, define how many holdings, how many % each holding should be, when to sell etc. Create your own handbook! 

• Stick to it, invest monthly about 10% of your earnings, dont gamble, avoid leverage, dont mind the news so much.

• Best time to start investing or saving is today!

"Money ain't got no owners, only spenders" - Omar Little
"Cash rules everything around me" - Wutang
"A fool and his money are soon parted" - Thomas Tusser

Disclaimer: Not a financial advisor, this is just text on the internet. Make your own decisions always!