Start your investing journey with insights from these trailblazing women who took the leap into investing.

What causes you financial worry? Often, the stress comes from the things we don’t discuss — the uncertainties. Financial conversations are still lacking in many homes, making everything from paying bills to investing feel overwhelming. Interestingly, studies show that women tend to be more successful investors than their male peers when they do invest. However, they typically invest about 40% less than men. If you haven't started investing yet, let this be your motivation. Feeling hesitant is normal; many of us felt the same way when we began. We hope these stories from four entrepreneurs inspire you to dive in.

“Invest only what you can afford to lose.”

Lauren Simmons, who was the youngest female trader on Wall Street, began investing in her own portfolio last year at age 25 after working at the New York Stock Exchange. Surprisingly, she shares that most professional traders often do not invest their own money, preferring properties or alternative assets. After settling her student loans, Simmons shifted her strategy. “I didn’t want my savings to earn 0.1% interest, which was being eroded by inflation,” she explains.

She researched and selected companies she believes will thrive, paving a secure financial future for herself. Her advice for hesitant women is to invest only what you can afford to lose. Start by paying off debt and building an emergency fund of six months’ expenses. “Once you’re ready to invest, educate yourself on the market through sources like Bloomberg or CNBC,” she recommends. “Consider starting with an ETF that mirrors the market and matches your risk tolerance to ease into investing.”

“Fear often stems from a lack of understanding and worry about losses.”

Teri Williams, who became president and COO at OneUnitedBank, was encouraged by a mentor to enroll in her company’s 401(k) plan at American Express when she was 28. The company match made it a straightforward decision. Later, she began investing for her children’s college funds. Williams emphasizes that addressing your fears is vital for comfortable investing. “Many of us feel anxious because we lack knowledge and fear losing money,” she notes. Shifting from short-term to long-term thinking is essential. “Investments can fluctuate, but over time, solid stocks and real estate typically yield positive results,” she adds.

Establish an automated savings plan to build your funds without overspending. Once you have savings, invest in assets that fit your comfort level.

“Take your time and explore gradually.”

Liz Giorgi, in her late 20s, wanted a retirement plan while working for herself. She began her investment journey by opening a Roth IRA, drawn by its tax benefits and flexibility. Upon seeing her first statement revealing a $200 gain on her $2,000 investment, she became excited about investing. “The thought of my money generating more money was thrilling, so I started exploring different investment avenues,” she recalls.

Now the co-founder and CEO of soona, Giorgi diversifies her investments through her Roth IRA and maxes out her 401(k) monthly. She’s also begun supporting small businesses aligned with her values. For women eager to start, she advises taking it slow and trying different options. And importantly: regularly check your financial statements. “Learning by doing is the best way to discover what works for you, transforming fear into excitement as you grow your wealth,” she says.

“Start investing today.”

For Erica Groussman, CEO of TruWomen, investing was ingrained in her upbringing. Her parents opened an IRA for her when she was 16, contributing $1,000 to $2,000 annually while she invested in appealing stocks. “I remember investing in Apple when it was just $4 a share and Disney, among others. I sold DreamWorks too early, but I had success with Sirius stocks,” she shares.

Her straightforward advice is to begin now and explore without fear. Many brokerages allow trades for as low as $4, making investing accessible. “Instead of buying coffee every day, save that money and invest it instead. You don’t need a fortune to start; even $50 or $100 can work. I find stock trading fascinating, especially learning about companies going public,” she concludes.