With ""no intention of giving specific advice"", this is a very different approach to the market based on the psychological factors which determine your investment attitudes, and it indicates the elimination of anxiety- as both a desirable means and end. Temperamental factors (suspicion, susceptibility, speculativeness, etc.) all play their part and to understand the market the customer must also understand himself. The risk you can afford to take and this ""bearable loss"" varies greatly; formula plans to follow- if they fit your needs; the virtues and vices of investment trusts, diversification, concentration; statistics- and what you need know -- all this is part of a personal orientation which should help you to find a philosophy which brings you serenity as well as security. As such, it is persuasive and assuasive.