The Bottom Line

You can become your own FA – but you have to be willing to put in some time and effort. It’s important that you understand the various types of retirement accounts and investment vehicles before risking any money. Do your homework, research your options and learn from your mistakes – as well as your successes.

Keep in mind, being your own FA doesn’t have to mean you go it alone. While you could be pretty savvy at picking stocks, for example, your understanding of current tax laws might be – well, somewhat limited. It’s O.K. (and even recommended) that you consult with a qualified tax specialist to make sure you understand the tax implications of your investment decisions, and that you report everything appropriately.

Even if you’re eager to manage all your investments yourself, there’s nothing wrong with consulting with a professional advisor – just once, or even once in a while. If you have questions, are unsure about a strategy you’re considering or just feel like you need a little direction, there’s no shame in asking for help.

The biggest thing, of course, is to approach your financial health with intention. Successful investing – and meeting your short- and long-term financial goals – requires someone in the driver’s seat.