Look at the chart to see the results if she'd continued to add more money each year. That's how compounding works. Most value is created at the tail-end of an investment's life. Always keep that in mind as you embark upon, and continue, your investment career. You can also see from both tables that the annual return an investor achieves means a great deal.
Every percentage point is significant, especially over long periods of compounding.
That's part of the reason why it is so important that you learn to manage your money Foolishly and avoid mediocre companies. That's not always easy, given all of the unforeseen events in this world, but if a majority of your investments are successful, you should be proud and you should reach your goals. Hopefully the main thing that you'll have, while you invest and after your investment career seems fulfilled, is happiness. To discuss direct investing, please join us on the Drip Companies or Drip Basics board. The Fool is hiring.