Earlier this year I mentioned that I was taking some classes at my local college. I wanted to take a few classes that could improve my skills for designing websites. I figured if I took classes I was interested in, I would actually go and maybe get good grades too!

It has been a LONG time since I had taken any classes, I am guessing about 10 years but I rocked the three classes I took this semester.  Below is a screenshot of my unofficial transcript for the Spring 2013 semester.

It was fun going back to school and I am enrolled full time for the Fall 2013 semester! I will be taking more computer classes, a photography class and even a cooking class so I can learn how to make some fancy desserts.

When was the last time you took a class?

Though most people would probably agree that investing is a smart move, not nearly enough are doing it. In 2011, the number of Americans with stock market investments hit a low not seen since 1999. If you’re struggling to start investing yourself, look through these common hurdles and see how you can leap over them and race on toward better financial health.

Investing Seems Too Difficult

Image via Flickr by danielfoster437

If you’ve never invested a penny before, getting started may simply seem too daunting. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help you learn about the process. You don’t have to jump into stocks and bonds. Begin by setting aside as much as you can in a savings account. When you have a few thousand saved there, move it to a short-term CD where you’ll earn a higher interest rate. Take baby steps and diversify your portfolio with riskier investments gradually.

There’s Never Enough Money

If you’re struggling to make ends meet, investing probably seems impossible. It’s not easy to invest if you don’t have much money to spare, but every bit helps. Comb through your budget and look for creative ways to cut back. Walk to work a few days a week or organize a carpool and invest the amount that you save on gas. Switch soda for tap water from a reusable filtered bottle. You can find lots of ways to free up a little extra money when you put your mind to it.

The Timing Never Seems Right

Many people fall into the endless excuse of waiting till “later” to get more organized with their finances. Investing gives you the biggest return when done as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the less you can make. Though the state of the economy will impact which type of investment is wisest at any given moment, the best time to invest is always right now.

It’s Nerve-Wracking to Give up Immediate Access to Funds

When you invest your money, it’s not always accessible right away. There are penalties associated with accessing certain investments before they’ve matured. Most people feel most comfortable with their money close at hand. Keep some emergency funds in an accessible savings account so you have something to fall back on if you need it. Then bite the bullet and put what you don’t need into investments.

Investing Seems Too Risky

If you’ve experienced the struggle of going without, it’s not always easy to trust your money to an investment on the faith that your risk will pay off and you’ll end up with more. If you aren’t investing because you’re too afraid of losing your money, begin with something low-risk like a CD. Not all investments are as unpredictable as the stock market. Turn to experts with credentials like what you find on the Fisher Investments profile for advice on the best investments for your comfort level.

There are only two ways to make money – by working for it, or by making it work for you. Stop making excuses that force you to go through the daily grind year after year and start investing now.