Start with $50

You do not need thousands to start investing. $50 per month at 8% returns for 30 years becomes roughly $74,000 — from just $18,000 in total contributions. The remaining $56,000 is pure compound growth working for you.

Open a brokerage account this week and set up a $50 automatic monthly investment into a broad index fund. Do not wait for the perfect amount or perfect timing — both are myths that keep people on the sidelines.

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is right now.