You must also think about unmanageability. A sense of unmanageability is common with investments. The causes of unmanageability are many but usually center around investment professionals and investment institutions.

Insurance salespeople may manipulate investors into high-commission, highsurrender fee, and inappropriate variable annuities. The chosen mutual fund might have huge loads and high minimums. The online brokerage Web site may freeze during the market crash.

Unmanageability can also be subtle. For example, savers want to own money market funds in their 401(k) accounts. Often the company will only match their savings with company stock and will encourage them to convert their money market funds into more company stock. Then office politics dictate that anyone wishing to be promoted buy company stock in the 401(k) and accept options on company stock as compensation.