Thinking about starting investing can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be like a high-octane thriller. Financial educator Austin Hankwitz says successful investing is slow and methodical. You don’t need a lot of money or a daredevil spirit to start, just common sense and a willingness to try. Begin by investing a consistent monthly amount you can afford. Then keep your strategy simple with broad-market exposure through an ETF that tracks the S&P 500.

Don’t wait for the perfect time to enter the market, says Hankwitz. It’s about giving yourself more time in the market to let your assets grow. Consistency, not cleverness, builds wealth. Even small contributions made consistently over time can compound into meaningful returns. Diversify your investments once you’ve built a solid base in the S&P 500 or Nasdaq-100.

Investing for the first time doesn’t have to be scary. With patience, realistic expectations, and a focus on building good habits, you can find success. Hankwitz advises beginners to relax, start with what you can afford, and stick to a schedule. Remember, the best-performing investors are those who stick to the plan and don’t get shaken out by volatility.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Why You Should Start Investing Now (Even If You Only Have $10)