Investing your hard-earned money and creating a sizeable portfolio could be achieved, even in these trying times, if you simply follow the basics. It is a popular myth that investment products are extremely complicated and investment planning requires in-depth knowledge of multiple financial tools. Not to mention the popular belief that all forms of investments are extremely risky with the possibility of draining out your principal amount.

The fact is that you need to have a clear-cut financial goal, a well thought out financial plan to achieve that goal and the discipline to carry out the plan. With a little bit of initial research, you should be able to determine the financial assets that match your risk-taking capacity, which will help you in determining the ideal investment path ahead. Follow these simple steps to start your journey of financial independence:

1. Identify your financial goals

This is by far the simplest yet most important step you need to follow before you start investing your money. Determine your financial goals and set a realistic timeline to achieve them. These goals could be buying your house, planning an international vacation, paying for your wedding, retirement, etc. It could also be an amalgamation of multiple such goals. Give a realistic timeline for each of your goals, to not burden yourself with unnecessary pressure of achieving them within a short period.

2. Choose a diversified portfolio

Diversify your portfolio across multiple financial products to maintain a balanced investment plan. Not only does it lower your risk by investing in different vehicles, but also helps in amassing higher returns. Ideally, you should invest money in multiple asset classes like Fixed Deposits, Mutual Funds, Equities, Gold, Real Estate, etc. Over-dependence on a single investment could prove to be disastrous if the markets crash.

3. Give contingencies a priority

While you would want to plan for an international trip with your family or friends or purchase some jewelry, it is always wise to first create a financial pool for your emergencies. One of the fundamental purposes of savings is to ensure you have enough cash in your reserve for unforeseen expenses like medical or hospitalization charges, loss of a job, loss in business, etc. It is always advisable to keep some money parked for such rainy days so it does not impact your overall financial health.

4. Compound your growth for your long-term goals

One of the key steps in financial planning is to ensure you stay invested for a longer period. The longer you stay invested, the better are the chances of you compounding your growth. If you stay invested long enough, the power of compounding returns can help you multiply your wealth at a faster pace, thereby helping you to achieve your goals. Also, long-term investments help you to beat market volatility.

5. Stay disciplined with the help of automation

Automation helps you to maintain the financial discipline you need to achieve your goals. It is extremely easy for anyone to get distracted and spend money to buy the latest mobile phone. To become financially independent, you must look at avoiding such mistakes and create solutions, which could help you to maintain good financial habits. Enable automatic transfer of money from your bank accounts to your investments every month to safeguard your investment strategy.

Follow these 5 crucial yet simple steps to start your journey towards financial independence. The key is to start investing as early as possible and continue investing for a long period. Barring an absolute financial meltdown, this plan will keep your portfolio healthy and increase your savings consistently.