Countless investment options and complex economic conditions can make the journey to financial independence and our ideal lifestyle a testing one. There are plenty of decisions to make. And plenty of questions to ask. But how can you be sure you’re asking the right ones?
If you’re in a period of uncertainty, your financial planner is there to give you guidance, an external perspective, and clarity. Often, however, the key lies not in new and better answers – but in asking different and better questions.
CHANGING YOUR MINDSET: HOW CAN YOU START?
Influenced by the media and generic rules of thumb that fail to account for individual circumstances, many investors revert to questions that can trigger common behavioural biases when times get uncertain. Here are five common examples:
- Where is the stock market heading in the next few months?
- How can I maximise my returns in the short term?
- Should I invest in the latest trend?
- Is now the right time to buy or sell a particular investment?
- Is now a good time to keep my money in cash?
You’ll notice these questions are all focused on the here and now. While it can be hard at times to take a step back and look at the bigger picture, i.e., your long-term goals and ideal lifestyle, we’ve found that doing so helps guide us towards a healthier mindset, and ultimately, more positive outcomes.
So, shift your thinking and ask yourself:
- What are my long-term financial goals, and how does this decision impact them?
- How will this decision affect my ability to reach or maintain financial independence?
- What is the historical performance and volatility of this asset?
- Can I hold onto this investment for the long term, even in market downturns, without panicking?
- What impact will this investment choice have on my wider financial strategy?
- How will this decision affect those who are financially dependent on me?
These future-focused questions can be an invaluable tool for navigating the world of investing.
They’ll give you a better understanding of your financial situation, more confidence in your decision-making, and a higher chance of improving your long-term outcomes.
If you need help asking (or answering) your most important questions, we’d love to chat. Get in touch with your usual Cooper Parry Wealth contact or give us a shout at theteam@cooperparry.com.
This communication is for general information only and is not intended to be individual advice. You are recommended to seek competent professional advice before taking any action.
Past performance can’t guarantee what investments will do in the future. The value of an investment can go down as well as up, so there’s a chance you’d get back less than you put in.
