If you’ve saved diligently and still feel like you’re behind in the financial game, you’re not alone. Think of it like trying to catch up in a Mario Kart race—you’re doing great, but the finish line still feels far away. At 31, making around $150K and holding $205K in savings (plus about $22K in your Tax-Free Savings Account), you’re in a solid position to start investing. It’s time to rev up your financial engine and explore what comes next.

First off, let’s talk about that savings stash. While having a substantial savings cushion is like having a trusty shield in a video game, too much cash sitting in a low-interest account is akin to letting your favorite character sit on the bench instead of leveling up. You want your money to work as hard as you do, ideally generating returns that outpace inflation. A good rule of thumb is to keep a few months’ worth of expenses in a high-yield savings account for emergencies, but beyond that, you might want to consider investing.

Now, about that TFSA. This is like your secret weapon for tax-free growth. If you haven’t maxed it out yet, consider putting more funds in there. The beauty of a TFSA is that any gains you make aren’t taxed, so whether you're investing in stocks, bonds, or ETFs, that’s extra cash in your pocket. Look into well-diversified index funds or ETFs that track the market—think of them as the all-star team of investments.

With your substantial income, you also have the option to explore registered retirement accounts or even start a non-registered investment account if you’ve maxed out your TFSA contributions. The idea is to diversify your investments across different asset classes. Stocks can be your high-flying superhero, bonds your reliable sidekick, and real estate investments your trusty vehicle to drive you toward financial independence.

Let’s not forget about risk tolerance. Investing is a bit like picking which Marvel superhero you want to follow. Some people prefer the thrill of Iron Man flying into battle, while others might want the steady reliability of Captain America. Assess how comfortable you are with market fluctuations and how long you plan to invest. Given your age and savings, you can probably afford to take on a bit more risk for potentially higher returns.

Additionally, consider setting specific financial goals. What do you want to achieve with your investments? Is it a cozy retirement by the beach, traveling the world, or buying a home? Having clear objectives can help you tailor your investment strategy, making it feel less like aimless wandering in a video game and more like a journey with a purpose.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A financial advisor can be your Yoda, guiding you through the investment galaxy. They can help you create a personalized investment plan that aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Remember, the investment world can be complex, but with the right guidance, you can navigate it like a pro.

So gear up! You’ve got the foundation laid with your savings, and now it’s time to take action. Investing can feel intimidating, but with a little knowledge and strategy, you can transform that feeling of being behind into a confident sprint toward your financial goals.