In Michael Shearn's 2012 book, "The Investing Checklist," he shares 59 questions investors should ask when considering an investment.

As a checklist nerd, I'm excited to dive into his book.

But I was surprised when I read his first question. Here it is.

Do I want to spend a lot of time learning about the business?

It's a beautiful question because you can move on if the answer is no. Michael argues (quite well) that if you aren't interested in learning about the business, your time is better spent on another investment.

David Gardner agrees with Shearn. In his 25-Question Risk Framework, he states that a business that doesn't interest you is riskier than one that does.

Shearn points out that a lack of interest can result in missed information 👇

"If the analyst is not interested in the business, he or she may never uncover useful insights. It is common sense that you are less likely to succeed at something you are not interested in." -Shearn

Michael's question is even more important for individual investors. Time is our most valuable commodity. Don't waste it on businesses you don't enjoy studying.

What do you think? Does this question belong in your Framework?