I've spent most of my life intimidated by the financial planning world. I would do what I was told, save what I could, and figure the details were over my head.
The time for that kind of thinking is over, me thinks.
I'm tired of not understanding the financial news on the TV or radio, I'm tired of feeling my eyes glaze over as I try to follow market reports. Now that I'm in mid-30's, I am so enjoying the new feeling of freedom from incompetency that plagued me through my teens and even in my 20's. I won't blame my parents that they didn't teach me these things....they had a lot on their plate back then. It might have saved me a ton of mistakes but then again, maybe not. Perhaps I needed those mistakes!
I feel that the understanding right here now, right before my very eyes...just beyond my fingertips-that I can understand what investments and Wall Street are all about. I truly believe in my own intelligence....I can do this!!
However, I do want to be realistic about my starting point. Which brings me to something I discovered that I am very excited to share! I tend to love kids and young adult books when exploring an unfamiliar topic. I discovered this particular joy while homeschooling. Suddenly I could read with ease about all the battles of the Revolutionary War or plant biology....and not feel overwhelmed. I used to keep that little secret to myself until my brother-in-law, who is a very intelligent teacher, said he loves to read kids books for the same reason! I felt such relief...I wasn't a dummy! Ever since, I read my kids books like there's no tomorrow!
There are a plethara of sites and financial education sites for children on the internet. I found these particular sites after signing up for their free virtual stock exchange game! I start tomorrow and I can not wait. There are a ton of games to join, you can compete with others, and it runs only while the market is open. Anyone care to join me? And I'd enjoy hearing if anyone checks out those sites-what did you think?
Until then, I'll be reading my 11 year old son's copy of The Young Investor. It appears I have some catching up to do.
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I've bookmarked your blog to come back to later. I'm interested in the virtual stock exchange game you mentioned. I've been working on a Wall Street Basics course off and on for over a year, watching Closing Bell and Mad Money, doing some reading, making practice plays. It's overwhelming, but it is interesting. I especially like watching Mad Money. Cramer makes the most sense to me. I actually understand most of what he's saying and I love the historical and literary references he throws out there. The Rich Dad books are good, though the writing is a little lacking at times. Retire Young, Retire Rich is my favorite of those so far.
I've got to crash, but I'll be back to look more later:o)
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