I say don't invest! Seriously, don't invest on principle. Also don't borrow on principle. Never accept or pay interest! It's the best thing you can do for the world!
The concept of compound interest is just a really clever good-looking way of mathematically disguising that you're having other people work to fulfill your needs without giving them what they deserve. By accepting interest you're saying that it's a good thing that some guy in china beats children to make your clothes cheaper.
I think that's why most people somehow feel uneasy about investing, after they've overcome the fear of losing their money. I'd say take the trouble to understand the concepts in
this book and be free from the demons of investment for good! It will make you a better man.