For investors, the biggest decision is often deciding in which investments to invest. There are tens of thousands of different stocks and bonds trading in their respective markets. Mutual funds and exchange-traded funds—ETFs—give investors the option to buy investments, which are participation in a portfolio of stocks, bonds or a combination.

Inside the world of mutual funds and ETFs, there are again thousands of choices. An investor can narrow down his or her choices with an understanding of how these fund types work, the different features they offer, and the differences between mutual funds and ETFs.

One point to remember is that most exchange-traded funds are organized under the same rules that govern mutual funds. The primary differentiation is how the shares of the two fund types are bought and sold. Included in our discussion here are links to specific articles with further, in-depth discussion of the different topics.

Most people today are concerned about their retirement. The economy is on the decline and most investments are down. The stock market is uncertain, real estate prices have dropped tremendously and overall the economy has struggled. Many people feel they can do better investing their money, if they were to choose the investments rather than so call ed experts.

Well, more than 35 years ago, Congress gave us a simple method of being more in charge of of our retirement income. We can do this by starting and maintaining a Self Directed IRA. A self directed IRA simply means that you are in charge of the investments that you make in your own retirement account. You have the power to decide what to invest in, rather some fund that is run by someone who knows nothing about you.

While there are some restrictions on what you can put your money into, in reality, very few restrictions exist. So, what can you invest your money in with a self directed IRA? Well, how about real estate, or making a loan for someone, or providing a mortgage. There are countless things to invest in and you are in charge as far as what to do with your own money.

There are no magic wands or magic bullets—whichever analogy you like best—and it is not impossible to turn this situation around and restore the American dream. However, it will involve sacrifice and the pain of behavior change.

On a national level, American voters need to shake off their apathy and oust from office every single politician who has contributed to mortgaging America’s future by selling us to foreign powers as indentured servants via debt. Just vote them out.

Next, we need to monitor the results of the new bunch that takes office. The minute we see a return to “politics as usual” and spending addiction, we vote them out. If we throw them out of office often enough, eventually the message will sink in. Americans have had it with oppressive taxation and lack of representation from elected officials. It is our money—not yours—and you will spend it the way we tell you to or you will lose your cushy job.

Most people today are concerned about their retirement. The economy is on the decline and most investments are down. The stock market is uncertain, real estate prices have dropped tremendously and overall the economy has struggled. Many people feel they can do better investing their money, if they were to choose the investments rather than so call ed experts.

Well, more than 35 years ago, Congress gave us a simple method of being more in charge of of our retirement income. We can do this by starting and maintaining a Self Directed IRA. A self directed IRA simply means that you are in charge of the investments that you make in your own retirement account. You have the power to decide what to invest in, rather some fund that is run by someone who knows nothing about you.

While there are some restrictions on what you can put your money into, in reality, very few restrictions exist. So, what can you invest your money in with a self directed IRA? Well, how about real estate, or making a loan for someone, or providing a mortgage. There are countless things to invest in and you are in charge as far as what to do with your own money.

 I’d love to tell you when you should consider investing in Animalcare, but I’m no stockbroker. I’m also not an investment genius although you can find some great tips on Bright Hub on how to make your portfolio diverse.

I can tell you what I base my investments on and while it’s not a scientific way of investing, it seems to work for me, but keep in mind, I only play with penny stocks.

For example, prior to the start of the National Football League season, I always buy stock in Riddell helmets because players wear them and they wear out. I’m sure every player has at least three with their numbers and team logos on them. In addition, all the ones they make are worn once or twice and then a team member is cut so to me Riddell is always a good choice.

At the start of the holiday season, I look at weight loss centers, see who has the best stock prices, and invest in those. Why? People gain weight over the holidays and come January they run to these places for help so I’m there to collect on my investment for sure!

 During my parents’ life of growing up shortly after the Great Depression (the 30s), and entering the workforce (the 50s), they developed frugal habits to budget their funds and pay their bills. A popular budgeting method used during those hard economic times was the envelope system.

My dad would bring his pay home (in cash), and they would divvy it up into the appropriate envelopes: house payment, groceries, gas and so forth. My dad would be quick to tell you that there was certainly no envelope marked “eating out” or “entertainment.”