The one audio book that really helped me make investment decisions was "The automatic millionaire" by David Bach. You can probably get this from the library, give it a listen. If you're a financial novice like I was about 10 years ago, this book really helps set the right context for how to invest in North America.

The key points in the book are "pay yourself first" (essentially investing on pre-tax income) and making your investments automatic. The automatic piece was absolutely key for me, because it eliminates the need to have rigorous fiscal discipline (which I don't by any measure)

For example, if you plan to contribute to your RRSP every year, then join your employer sponsored plan such that the money gets deducted straight from your paycheck (most employers offer some sort of matching, which is an added benefit). Likewise for your mortgage - increase the monthly payments above the bare minimum as much as possible. Once you don't see that money in your bank account in the first place, you'll be amazed at how much easier it becomes to save it. You feel the pain for the first few months and then it becomes the new normal.

I agree with most folks that you need to enjoy today while planning for your future. There needs to be a balance though that makes sense for you. Who knows what the world will look like in 15/20 years when we retire. You're taking a huge risk if you plan to depend on the govt. to fund your existence, you almost certainly will not be able to maintain your standard of living.

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