It’s not about how much money you make, it’s about how much money you keep.

Keeping money doesn’t mean stashing it away in your savings account. While saving is essential, investing is what truly builds wealth. Many of us know how much money we earn, but we often overlook how much of it we can retain and grow.

For many of us, financial literacy wasn’t taught at home. But making a change starts with understanding how to keep and grow your money. You can’t go into investment without preparation. Even with a high income, successful investing requires budgeting and strategic planning.

Kevin Peters, a financial expert with over 30 years of experience helping everyone—from pro athletes to first-time investors—take control of their money. He has helped us demystify the essentials of smart investing, budgeting, and building long-term wealth.

5 Things to Know Before Investing

1. Establish Your Investment Goal. Why are you investing? To go on vacation in 12 months, buy a house in 2-3 years, or build retirement savings? Clearly defining your goal helps you create a realistic plan to achieve it.

2. Know Your Investment Timeframe. Shorter time frames call for conservative investments, while longer ones can afford more aggressive approaches. The market moves in cycles, and successful investing is about positioning yourself wisely within these cycles.

3. You Can’t Chase Returns. Every investment must be evaluated individually. Decisions should be based on market conditions, not past successes or losses. Avoid the trap of emotional investing.

4. Know When to Sell. Deciding when to sell an investment depends on valuation and potential upside. For example, if Nike stock is trading at $100 but has a projected value of $110, there’s still room for growth. Monitoring valuation helps investors make informed decisions about selling, rather than guessing or reacting emotionally.

5. Consult a Financial Advisor. After establishing your investment goals and strategy, it is important to seek expert advice from financial advisors who can help individuals make informed decisions about saving, investing, and planning for the future.

What’s Next: Investing isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s for everyone. It’s for the young Black professionals, the entrepreneurs, and the dreamers looking to build something lasting. The key is to start, no matter how small. Whether you’re earning six figures or just beginning your financial journey, there are accessible investment opportunities.