Learn how to move past some common financial fears, some...

Learn how to move past some common financial fears, some of which are based -- not on fact -- but myth. Credit: iStock

Financial fears can cripple you. Paralysis sets in, critical moves aren't made, or worse, ill-conceived ones are made because of myths.

Move past these common fears:

Stocks are risky. "Unless you have a private business, real estate investments, or are a very disciplined saver, you need equity growth to fuel your financial freedom," says Bill Hammer Jr., president of Hammer Wealth Group in Melville. People often fear stocks, he says, because they don't understand how the market works. Study it. Read books, articles and personal finance websites.

"The real risk is not investing. Savings accounts don't keep pace with inflation," says Elle Kaplan, of Lexion Capital Management in Manhattan.

I'll never be able to retire. Create a plan. "Get a financial planner and start a conversation. Visualize your retirement end game, develop realistic goals and take action," says Tim Minard, senior vice president of distribution at Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, Iowa.

My spouse won't get on board. Some fear their mate won't change, thinking, "Even if I follow a budget, my spouse will just spend all the money I save, so why save?" says Laurie Puhn, author of "Fight Less, Love More."

Ask questions to uncover his or her hesitation to spend less or save more, Puhn says. "Talk about how saving makes a difference, like creating a cushion should one of you lose a job."

Remember, says Roberto Viceconte, CPA and partner at Raich Ende & Malter Co. in Manhattan, "inaction solves nothing."

Latest Videos

Newsday LogoSUBSCRIBEUnlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 5 months
ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME