Market swings causing you some anxiety? These four money mantras can help you overcome it.
Whether it’s the continuing presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, a sudden boost in prices related to gas, food, housing and other essentials, supply chain hiccups, an uncertain labor market (or any number of other things), the stock market has certainly seen its share of ups and downs over the past six months. As always, it’s impossible to predict what the market will do on any given day. But at the start of a new year, it’s always a good idea to take some deep, measured breaths and focus on some basic money mantras. Doing so will help you push through any anxiety you may be feeling regarding your retirement account (no yoga pose required).
Mantra #1: I Am Investing for the Long Term
An old saying goes, “saving for retirement is a journey, not a sprint.” A volatile market can push the most experienced investors into making emotional decisions. However, it’s never a good idea to change your investments simply because of day-to-day volatility. Set a strategy that’s right for you and stick with it. Having a diversified portfolio can help you build confidence in your long-term plan — so don’t just throw it out the window during big market swings!
Historically, equity markets have trended upward over the long term. However, past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investing involves risk, so you may want to consider working with a financial professional who can help you review your current tolerance for risk, keeping in mind your other financial goals.
Mantra #2: I Will Diversify My Portfolio
Putting your money into a number of investment options that include different types of asset classes can help reduce risk. Generally speaking, if your dollars are invested in materially different types of investments (stocks, bonds, and cash), and market conditions cause one of your investments to decline, all of your money shouldn’t be affected.
A simpler way to understand diversification is to look at the food you put on your plate. The more food groups and colors on your plate, the more nutrients your body consumes and the healthier you are. If, however, you only ate pizza every day, your body would suffer from a lack of key nutrients. The same is true for an investment portfolio’s diversification. Investors who put their money in only one type of asset (such as stocks) are at an increased risk for loss of principal due to a lack of variety in their portfolio.
Mantra #3: I Will Rebalance My Portfolio on a Regular Basis
Over time, market changes can lead to shifts in your portfolio’s asset allocation. For example, you may have started with a 75/25 stock fund-to-bond fund split, but changes in the market caused stocks to now account for 85% of your portfolio’s value. That’s why it’s important to periodically check your asset allocation to see if it aligns with your current strategy and risk tolerance. Keep in mind, you may also want to rebalance to a more aggressive or conservative allocation should your tolerance for risk change due to where you are in life or how close you are to retirement.
Mantra #4: I Will Seek Professional Help If I Need It
Many people consult with an investment advisor for guidance regarding their retirement plan investments. An advisor can help you determine an appropriate investment strategy to achieve your financial goals that is based on your risk tolerance and time frame.
Heartland Retirement Plan Services are offered through Dubuque Bank and Trust Company. The information provided herein is general in nature and is not intended to be nor should be construed as specific investment, legal or tax advice. The factual information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but is not guaranteed as to accuracy or completeness. Heartland Retirement Plan Services makes no warranties with regard to the information or results obtained by its use and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or reliance on, it. Products offered through Heartland Retirement Plan Services are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed and may lose value, unless otherwise noted.