Top Investing Do’s and Don’ts

Investing can be daunting when you consider all the things that go into. You have to consider the risks, rewards, how to research a stock, understanding analyst’s reviews, what kind of portfolio you want, your goals, and so much more.

To help you navigate the complex world of investments, we have compiled a list of the Top Investing Do’s and Don’ts that every investor should be aware of. By following these guidelines, you can increase your chances of making sound investment decisions and avoid common pitfalls that can lead to financial loss.

Before doing any kind of investing, please do your research. You will thank me later.

Do: Set Clear Financial Goals

You will need to set your financial goals before you begin investing. It is crucial that you define how your investment strategy will operate. This applies to anything you do in life, whether it be saving for a house or a college fund. Setting clear-cut goals will help you in the long-term.

An example I can use would be myself. My goal is to be able to retire by age 55, though 62 is not bad either. However, my goal is 55 and I am trying my hardest to get there. I am focusing on stocks that give me dividends because I want to have three income sources when I retire. I want to be able to live off my 401(k) account, my dividends and when its time, my social security.  Setting this goal for myself will help keep me on track and focused.

Don’t: Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

The old saying, “Don’t put all your eggs into one basket”, is true. By limiting yourself to one investment, you are relying on that company to do well all the time. This can cause financial hardship or ruin down the road.

Diversification is crucial to minimizing risk to your finances. By having multiple companies in your portfolio, you protect yourself from one company taking a hit. For example, if you own $100,000 worth of shares in your portfolio and one of the companies is Microsoft. Let says something bad happens that causes them to lose share price and it costs you $4,000. Imagine if you owned $100,000 of Microsoft, instead of $4,000, it could be $40,000 you lose, possibly more depending on how bad the drop is.

Another reason to diversify is your ability to receive consistent positive returns. If one stock does not do so well, the others will still keep you positive and you will still earn money. You need to spread out your investments.

Do: Conduct Thorough Research

As I stated in the intro, research is vital for your financial success. Knowledge is power, so before making any financial investments, take the time to assess the company and consider if it is worth adding to your portfolio. Analyze the company’s finances, their products, read analyst thoughts and see what trusted financial experts are saying.

The more you know, the better equipped you will be to make informed investment choices. It does not take long either to research a company. A simple google search will get you a ton of valuable information.

Don’t: Let Emotions Drive Your Decisions

We are all-human and sometimes are emotions get the better of us. Usually the wrong thing is said and now you have someone upset with you. Overtime you can mend the relationship and become friends again but when it comes to investments, it is a little different.

Letting your emotions dictate your style and what you buy or sell can hurt you in the end. Investing can be an emotional rollercoaster, but it is important to remain levelheaded and avoid making impulsive decisions based on fear or greed. Market fluctuations are a normal part of investing, and trying to time, the market can be a costly mistake. Stick to your investment plan and resist the temptation to make rash decisions based on short-term market movements.

Do: Keep a Long-Term Perspective

When it comes to investing, it is a marathon, not a sprint. If you want to be a successful investor, you need to understand the importance of long-term planning and thinking. Create a financial goal for yourself and stick to it. Goals will help you stay on track.

The market will fluctuate constantly; you need to understand this now and whether any storms that come up. I had a stock recently sink on me because of fears over dividends but I held on and a couple weeks later, the company announces a dividend. All the money I lost I gained right back. I am not saying this is the right course for everyone, but that is why research is important. I knew the company would put a dividend out so I held strong.

Don’t: Neglect Regular Portfolio Review

Today’s generation has a mindset that they can get rich quick or put in any effort.  Investing is not the type of thing that is a set-it-and-forget-it. It does not operate on autopilot to where you can ignore it and make money. It requires your due diligence every month.

You need to regularly check your portfolio and make sure stocks are performing how you want them too and decide if they are worth keeping or selling. Review your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your goals and risk tolerance. As your circumstances change, you may need to rebalance your investments or make adjustments to stay on track. By staying actively involved in managing your portfolio, you can make informed decisions and optimize your returns.

Do: Seek Professional Advice

I am not a professional but I do suggest you speak to one before any major financial decisions. I write these articles because I love to invest and I have some experience doing it but an advisor can lead you in the right direction if you are new to investing.

A qualified financial advisor can help you develop a personalized investment strategy, identify suitable investment opportunities, and provide guidance during challenging market conditions. Working with a professional can give you peace of mind and increase your confidence as an investor.

Conclusion

Investing can be a fulfilling journey towards financial independence, but it requires careful planning and disciplined decision-making. By following these top do’s and don’ts, you can navigate the world of investments with confidence. Set clear goals, diversify your portfolio, conduct thorough research, stay rational, think long-term, review your investments regularly, and seek professional advice. Remember, investing is a continuous learning experience, and staying informed is key to achieving your financial goals.