Time in the market is more powerful than timing the market

Market cycles have always been intrinsic to investing.  Since 1928, significant market declines of at least 5% have happened in 92 out of 98 years. Yet despite these downdrafts, the S&P 500 has been positive 79% of the time over one-year periods, and that success rate increases to 100% for those who stayed invested for 11 years or more. Just consider this year: despite a sharp April selloff triggered by tariff fears, the S&P 500 has rebounded more than 30%. These aren’t just statistics—they’re powerful reminders that a long-term perspective is our most reliable guide.

I often tell people, “Don’t let today’s headlines steal your tomorrow.” In periods of uncertainty, when emotions run high, our financial focus can waver. The important thing is to stay invested and get protected. Stick to your long-term strategy and add some cushioning to help your portfolio ride out bumpy patches. Here are five ways to put that into action.

First, don’t try to time the market

Many people think they can sell at market peaks and buy at bottom levels. But even the most experienced professionals know this is a fool’s game. I remind people: “Time in the market is more powerful than timing the market.” Staying invested through every cycle allows your money the chance to grow, regardless of short-term fluctuations.

Second, add steadily to your savings and investments

Set your contributions on autopilot. Whether it’s through your workplace retirement plan or another disciplined savings strategy like an IRA, regular exposure to the market is crucial. Remember, when asset prices dip, your steady contributions buy more shares. Over time, that accumulation can significantly boost your overall returns, turning short-term uncertainty into long-term advantage.

Third, make sure your portfolio is diversified

It’s tempting—especially when you’re young or feeling behind—to chase the latest high-flying stock. Yet success over the long haul almost always comes from a balanced mix of assets. Diversification, especially into areas that aren’t perfectly correlated, stabilizes your portfolio so that not every part moves in lockstep when markets shift.

Fourth, if you’re saving for retirement, add protection to your portfolio through an insurance product like an annuity

This becomes more important the older you get. If you’re nearing retirement, you don’t want your nest egg to fall victim to a quick, sharp stock slide like we saw during the great financial crisis in 2007-2008, or at the start of the pandemic. While prices will likely recover, you may be planning to draw down your savings to pay for retirement expenses before the recovery hits full swing. Bonds are often seen as a protective investment, but bond prices can decline, too – as we saw during 2022 when the Fed raised interest rates dramatically to fight inflation. A portion of your portfolio should be dedicated to guaranteed income—like an annuity—that can provide a stable return no matter what turbulence the markets face. This isn’t just about preserving wealth; it’s about maintaining the dignity of retirement.

Fifth, consult a professional

Investing is complicated. There’s no shame in asking for help. I lead a financial services company and I still meet regularly with a personal financial advisor. Get advice – and get it from the right places. Not the latest hot stock tip you heard from the guy at work, and not the latest trend on social media. A good financial professional will get to know your goals, educate you about different asset classes and strategies, and – maybe most importantly – prevent you from making rash decisions when volatility strikes.

By staying invested and getting protected, you can manage through market turbulence with confidence. There will be plenty of days when choppy waters make you a bit queasy, but if you keep your eyes on the horizon, you’ll maintain a steady outlook.

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