👣Finding Your Footing: How to Start Your Journey as a Novice Investor

Are you curious about investing but unsure where to begin? You’re not alone. Many people want to grow their money but feel overwhelmed by the jargon, risks, and sheer volume of financial information out there. The good news? You don’t need a finance degree or a Wall Street connection to become a successful investor — just curiosity, discipline, and a willingness to learn.

Here’s how to start building your foundation as a novice investor.

1. Learn the Basics First

Before putting your money into any investment, take the time to understand the core concepts:

• What is a stock, bond, or mutual fund?

• What does diversification mean?

• What are risk and return, and how do they relate?

A great place to start your educational journey is Earn Your Leisure on YouTube. Their platform breaks down financial concepts in a culturally relevant, easy-to-understand way. From interviews with financial professionals to market analysis and real-world investing tips, Earn Your Leisure helps bridge the gap between everyday life and wealth-building knowledge.

2. Start Small and Stay Consistent

You don’t need thousands of dollars to start investing. Many brokerages now offer:

• Fractional shares – allowing you to invest small amounts into big-name companies.

• No trading fees – reducing barriers to entry.

• Automatic investing tools – helping you build wealth on autopilot.

Start with what you can afford and increase your investment as you gain confidence. The key is consistency, not perfection.

3. Set Clear Financial Goals

Are you investing to build retirement savings, grow a down payment, or generate passive income? Your goals will shape your investment strategy. Define your objectives and time horizon before choosing what to invest in.

4. Reach Out to a Professional

While self-education is crucial, talking to a trusted financial professional can help you avoid costly mistakes. We highly recommend reaching out to our trusted partner, Leo Barros, CFA at Raymond James. With years of experience helping clients build personalized investment strategies, Leo can guide you in aligning your financial decisions with your long-term goals.

5. Keep Learning and Stay Informed

Investing is not a one-time event; it’s a lifelong process. Markets evolve, new opportunities arise, and your personal circumstances will change. Keep learning by:

• Subscribing to financial podcasts or newsletters

• Following credible YouTube channels like Earn Your Leisure

• Reading books and articles by respected financial thinkers

Final Thoughts

Becoming a confident investor doesn’t happen overnight. But with patience, education, and the right guidance, you can take control of your financial future. Start small, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.

Your journey to financial growth begins today — take the first step