Common Cents: Easy Ways To Grow Your Money

Here's a lesson I wished I learned earlier in life: As soon as you start making money, you should start a 401(k) or a retirement account.

For the first few years of my working career, I was relatively inactive on the 401(k)-front. That changed around 2005 when I woke up and aggressively became involved with how my money was allocated.

My neurotic nature carries over to my financial self, making me extremely cautious about my money and investments. But, like most people, I want my retirement money to grow, and I realize investment diversification is the key.

(Click here: Free Friends to see my inaugural "Common Cents" column on MainStreet). ...