With its rewards, however, investing can also be challenging and confusing. Whether you dream of a new house or an investment property, money for your children’s education or the comfort of security and freedom in retirement – understanding the principles of good investing is the foundation of achieving your financial goals. Achieving these goals shouldn’t be luck. It requires commitment, research and patience, to ensure the outcome will be anything but uncertain. And, as with most things, you should plan ahead before you start.