By For lots of people, starting out investing in the financial markets feels a lot like gambling. It can be scary for even seasoned investors, but if you don’t know what you’re doing, well, it’s next to impossible to develop a strategy that will work for you long-term. Sure, it can be fun to buy a $5 stock and watch it double to $10, but it could just as easily plummet to $1. Roulette, anyone?
Personally, I hate gambling. I like to feel like I have a little more control over what’s happening with my money than simply a throw of the dice. While no one can predict exactly what the markets will do at any given time, there are ways to strategize and plan your approach. So, how can investors make the transition from gambling to investing with intention? That’s where our team comes in.
Just as you wouldn’t try to be your own dentist or surgeon, or just like I don’t do my own taxes, it’s important to have an expert on your side when it comes to navigating the financial markets. We can sit down with you and map out an investment strategy and methodology that works for you and your unique situation and set of goals. We’ll look at your entire financial picture and make sure our investment plan fits within the rest of your financial life and other goals.
Two keys we’ll tackle are determining your risk tolerance, and whether you want to be an active or passive investor (or both). Then we’ll create a plan that will help you keep your peace of mind, even when things get a little volatile. Having a deliberate plan in place, and knowing why you have that plan, will help you stay the course instead of panicking, as you might if you’re just gambling.
In almost any area in life, educated and engaged people are more confident and happier with their strategies than those who stay in the dark, or toss the dice hoping for a win. Do you feel like you’re gambling with your investments? Do you know someone who could use a little guidance when it comes to creating a long-term investment plan? Give us a call. Initial meetings are always free, and we’re always here to help.
Article by Kyrk Davis, Wealth Advisor at Family Financial Partners — a financial services firm in Lexington, Kentucky.