From Confusion to Confidence: The Step-by-Step Guide to Common Sense Investing

A clear, actionable roadmap for building wealth the Bogle way

Investing can feel like a maze—so many choices, so much jargon, and everyone telling you something different. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building wealth the simple, proven way championed by John C. Bogle.

1. Open an account at a reputable brokerage (like Vanguard, Fidelity, or Schwab).
2. Choose a total market index fund (U.S. or global).
3. Set your asset allocation (the mix of stocks and bonds that fits your age and risk tolerance).
4. Automate your contributions so you invest every month, no matter what.
5. Ignore the noise: don’t check your account daily, and don’t react to headlines.
6. Rebalance once a year if your allocation drifts too far.

That’s it. No stock picking, no market timing, no stress. Just a simple plan you can stick with for decades. The result? Greater wealth, less anxiety, and more time for what matters most.