Turning losses into lessons

INVESTING in the stock market can be a daunting journey, especially when initial attempts result in losses. Many, like my parents, faced significant financial setbacks that discouraged them from continuing. Similarly, when I first ventured into investing in 2008, I experienced a 40-percent loss due to the global financial crisis. Unlike my parents, who opted out of further investments, I chose to learn from my mistakes, educate myself and reenter the market with a more informed approach.

My parents and some of my dad's friends were initially drawn to the stock market, investing significant amounts in IPOs (initial public offerings). Unfortunately, they lost a substantial portion of their investments, which not only impacted their finances but also diminished their willingness to learn more and continue investing.