When you’re ready to begin investing, or when you think you’re ready to invest, the 1st step is to figure out how much money you’d like to invest. Most experts will say the 2nd step is to research where you want to put the money. In other words, what assets do you want to purchase (stocks? mutual funds? bonds?)
Wrong.
The 2nd step is to get your ass in gear, stop procrastinating, and open up an individual or a retirement account with an online broker. This doesn’t require any risk, and it’s a necessary step anyway. If you want to invest and you’re sure you won’t need the money in the next 6 months, there’s no harm in at least getting something set up so you can pull the trigger (ie – invest the money) when you want.