Big swings in the financial markets can make you feel as if you have little control over your investment success.
But you do have more control than you might think — as long as you don’t let fear guide your decisions.
And there’s more than one type of investment-related fear.
For example, some people fear losses so much that they only own very conservative investments, even if it means giving up growth potential.
There’s also the fear of missing out.
This fear explains why some investors jump into the market only when it’s rising.
Ideally, though, your buy-and-sell decisions should be based on your own investment strategy.
One more fear: the unknown.
Some investors stick only with investments they know, such as well-known local and domestic companies.
But this approach could limit their ability to build diversified portfolios.
Finally, there’s the fear of admitting failure.
If you find an investment, or an entire strategy, isn’t working for you, don’t be afraid to make a change.
Fear can hold us back in many walks of life - but don’t let it keep you from making appropriate investment moves.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor John Dickerson. Member SIPC.
