Some people use the stock market to build their wealth over time. There are certain individuals who use the stock market only to the advantage of their retirement fund. Then there are some people who make the stock market an everyday component in their financial life. If you plan to be one of the folks in the latter category, there are certain practices you should follow as a new stock market investor to ensure you become a smart investor who is capable enough to stick with investing and turning profits for years to come. Here are a few smart practices to remember as a new stock market investor. 

1. Start researching and never stop doing your research. 

The best stock investors will always tell you that you are never going to know all there is to know about the stock market and good investing practices. The rules are always changing when it comes to what makes success and what does not because the market is an ever-evolving thing. Before you immerse yourself into the world of investing, educate yourself with beginner online stock market investing books, online forums, tutorials, whatever it takes. This will be important as a beginner for sure, but continuing that education and research for the long term is just as important. 

2. Find out who you are as an investor and work from there. 

In the world of stock market investing, there are usually two types of people: the people who start out with a never ending drive to handle investments on their own and those who would prefer their investments be managed by someone else. Either way, it is important that you figure out who you are in the beginning. Knowing you are a control freak about your financial endeavors may tell you that you will be a more hands-on investor. If the stock market makes you uncomfortable, you may be better fitted with an investment manager. 

3. Try opening a brokerage account first. 

A brokerage account is a good way to get a feel for investing in the stock market without actually handling everything on your own in those delicate early phases. A brokerage will give you access to the most logical stocks and low handling fees so you can slowly and comfortably grow accustomed to allocating your funds without taking major financial chances. There are a lot of these brokerage firms out there, so take your time and shop around for the best one or even try out a few of them.