There is never a convenient time to save and invest money. Many people, rich and poor, believe they cannot afford to invest. The truth is that people cannot afford NOT to save and invest. From the village farmer to the office worker, the best time to invest is now, even if the amount contributed is small. Most people can find something to cut out of their spending and invest that amount—the price of a soda, chips, etc. That which is small can become large through the power of compound interest. Consistent saving will accumulate through time, so start saving when you are young.