Here is what it boils down to... if you can answer these questions honestly then by all means do it yourself, otherwise if you can afford to pay for advice do it.
1. Do you have the self disiciple to run and plan your finances like your job?
2. Do you have the time to keep up to date with all the changes in the economy and tax law changes? And NO, financial pornography like CNBC and Bloomberg doesnt count.
3. Do you have the disiciple to give yourself OBJECTIVE advice regarding your financial habits and investments?
That is the beginning point. Aside the fact that if you can do it, and learn about it, is your time worth it?
I am a financial planner and I still have one of my coworkers handle my finances as I know for a fact, I do not give myself objective advice... I still sometimes want to think there is easy money.
Am I saying you cant do it yourself? Absolutely not, but it wouldnt hurt to have another professional opinion.
And btw... those books are good... but i wouldnt touch Suze Orman with a ten foot pole.... once a failed planner with ML, now pushing her fico kit. Dave Ramsey does have a good understanding of things, and I incorporate this principles into my meetings with clients.
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