Today, we're here to tackle a subject that has made many of us quiver in our power heels: investing in the stock market. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a budding entrepreneur, it's time to kick fear to the curb and embrace the wonderful world of stock market investing. While it’s not right for everyone or every goal, letting fear of not understanding investing make your decisions needs to be erased. Let’s get some education so you can dip your toe in if it’s right for you. Ready to take on the bull?
1.Lights, Camera, No Action
Imagine this: You're about to do a TED talk on your passion or your life. You are going to inspire others! You’re all dressed up and ready to take center stage. But instead of strutting your stuff, you're frozen in place, unable to move. It’s strange because you’ve never had stage freight before. You’ve practiced for hours, but you can’t seem to get your feet to move so you can go on stage. Investing in the stock market can feel like this. The fear of the unknown can be paralyzing. One thing we can do just to get started is take the first step, just invest a little bit. Whether it’s a single stock or a big index like the S&P 500, just get started with a little bit of money. Watch it and as you get more comfortable, you might slowly drip your money in over time. Learn the markets by gaining a bit of experience and noticing the up and downs of the market day by day.
2. Risk and Rollercoasters
Rollercoasters are exciting, and so is the stock market. One day the market can be your best friend and the next you might want to throw it back into the ocean (no pollution please). Investing in the stock market can be volatile, but you need to remember that it is a calculated risk and could be the key to success. Just like everything in life, you don't achieve greatness by playing it safe all the time. Embrace the thrill but buckle up with diversified investments and a well-thought-out plan. Know why you are investing in what you choose to invest in and keep that in mind when you want to scream at the market on it’s bad days, weeks, or possibly years.
3. Trust Your Gut
We have a superpower: our gut feeling. But sometimes, that nagging inner voice can fill us with doubt. If you find yourself second-guessing your investment choices, it's time for a gut-check pal. Reach out to a financial advisor, someone who knows the ins and outs of the market, and more importantly, knows your plan and your investment strategy long term. An advisor can be a financial BFF, if you will. They'll help you navigate through the noise, provide sage advice, and keep your investment journey and financial plan on track.
4. One Size Does Not Fit All!
Have you noticed that when you order or try on a piece of clothing that says, “One Size Fits All” it often doesn’t. It’s too baggy or makes you look like you have a thousand rolls. One size for one person! In the stock market, the same applies. One size does not fit all. We all have different financial goals, risk tolerances, and investment timelines. Our strategies should be unique and personalized. Don't feel pressured to follow the crowd or invest like someone else. Just because Grandpa says so, doesn’t make it right for you! You just need to find the strategy that aligns with what you are trying to accomplish. Cinderella had her unique glass slipper, and you have your distinct financial path. Own it, embrace it, and make it fit you.
5. The Upside of Long-Term Relationships
We know the value of long-term relationships, in fact, most people try to find the one and settle down for life. In the stock market, a long-term relationship is a "buy and hold" strategy. Investing is not a one-night stand; it's a committed partnership. We have the urge to jump around to the new and trendy. Or we want to make changes just to make them. This can hurt you in the long run. We should stop and see if the new flavor of the week really fits with what we are trying to accomplish and our risk tolerance. Stay focused on your long-term financial goals and avoid getting distracted by short-term market swings. Just like a loyal friend, a well-chosen stock or fund can grow with you and stand the test of time.
The stock market is a vast world with opportunities and obstacles waiting for us to conquer. Sure, there will be challenges and uncertainties. Armed with knowledge, a financial partner, and determination to take control of our financial future, we'll slay the dragon of fear and, hopefully, emerge successful. Keep in mind that the market is a tool that needs to be coupled with saving strategies and other financial tools to be truly successful for you! You don’t want to take on too much risk for you because you don’t have those other things in place.
Let's raise our glasses (and our stock portfolios) to gaining some knowledge, taking it one day at a time, and investing in the stock market! Cheers! 🥂
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Investment advice offered through Integrated Financial Partners, doing business as One Vision Retirement, a registered investment advisor. The information in this material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Integrated Financial Partners does not provide tax advice or services. Please consult a qualified tax advisor regarding your specific situation.
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