Feeling Uneasy? You’re Not Alone—and Not Without a Path Forward

If you’re feeling a bit uneasy about the markets right now, you’re far from alone. The headlines are unsettling, the data can feel overwhelming, and the future—economically and otherwise—feels uncertain.

It’s a lot to process.

During times like these, I often find a helpful perspective by looking to history. Market crises—no matter how severe—have always followed a pattern: fear, fallout, recovery, and growth. Each time we’ve faced uncertainty, it has eventually given way to opportunity.

---

📉 We’ve Been Here Before

From the Great Depression and the oil shocks of the 1970s, to 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis, and even COVID-19’s dramatic market dip, investors have consistently faced periods of fear, loss, and doubt. More recently, we’ve seen inflation pressures, policy shifts, and global tensions further shake investor confidence.

Yet through it all, markets have shown a powerful tendency to recover. Over the past 70 years, despite enduring:

• 13 recessions (defined by 20%+ market declines)
• 11 bear markets (10%+ pullbacks)

…the U.S. stock market has averaged about 8% annual returns.

That doesn’t mean the ride is smooth—or that every portfolio behaves the same way—but it does illustrate a critical truth: resilience is baked into the system.

---

⏳ Fear Is Temporary. Staying Invested Is Strategic.

Periods of uncertainty often tempt us to make emotional decisions, especially when the noise gets loud and the volatility spikes. But history is clear—those who stick to a thoughtful, long-term strategy tend to be better off than those who react to short-term fear.

It’s not always easy. In fact, it’s rarely comfortable. But that’s exactly why we plan—to navigate moments like this with confidence, not panic.

---

🤝 Let’s Talk—Because This Is What Planning Is For

If you’re feeling uneasy, that’s okay. These are challenging times, and uncertainty never feels good in the moment. But you’re not in this alone.

Whether you want to review your plan, talk through market changes, or simply share what’s on your mind—I’m here.

This is the kind of moment we prepare for. And we’ll get through it—just as we have before.