flow(I feel I have longterm covered). There are numerous stocklike investments on the internet ( forex,stocks,comodies, options, funds
and etc). Should I learn a SYSTEM or develop my OWN? Because there is SO much out there to invest in, it is confusing as to with one to learn.
If you ask these questions, my recommendation is to go with indexed funds. It would allow you to learn along the way (by just monitoring your account's activities/performance/portfolio) at the same time get you into the "action" 
. The risk is definitely there, as with stock investment; however, it would be lower than if you are to invest in individual stocks yourself.
If you don't have a broker already, I recommend Vanguard. It offers many low-fee/no-load funds for you to choose from.
Best wish!