Fasten those seatbelts ? investing may be bumpy ride

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After record-breaking ups and downs in the stock market in recent months, some investors may be feeling a bit queasy especially new investors who had been enjoying a smooth ride and weren't expecting any sudden jolts. |ret||ret||tab|

Historically, however, the financial markets have never increased for an extended period of time without pulling back at some point. So, buckle up and get used to the fact that there's always going to be some rough road. Here are a few things to keep in mind when the ride gets bumpy.|ret||ret||tab|

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You're in it for the long haul|ret||ret||tab|

Is your first impulse to take your money out of the market when the going gets tough? Stop and consider your investment goals. Retirement investors are usually long-term investors. If you have many years until you retire, you may have plenty of time for your investments to recover from losses and to post gains. |ret||ret||tab|

If you sell when prices are low, you may miss out on future gains in the market. |ret||ret||tab|

Don't base your investment decisions only on recent market activity, because a hasty decision may prevent you from reaching your long-term destination of a secure retirement.|ret||ret||tab|

If, however, you do decide to take your money out of an investment portfolio, consider doing it gradually to avoid selling everything at a low price. Another option may be to stop contributing new money to that particular portfolio.|ret||ret||tab|

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Follow your road map|ret||ret||tab|

You probably used a lot of time and effort to put together your retirement strategy. Unless retirement is fast approaching or there has been a major change in your goals or financial situation, it usually isn't a good idea to make drastic changes to your strategy. |ret||ret||tab|

Try not to get confused and lost by sudden changes in the financial markets. Follow the road map that you prepared to lead you to a comfortable retirement.|ret||ret||tab|

However, you should keep an eye on your diversification. Depending on how your investment portfolios have been performing, your mix may have changed over time. |ret||ret||tab|

It's a good idea to check your retirement investments periodically to make sure they haven't become too concentrated in one asset class.|ret||ret||tab|

My advice keep on investing. Your future retirement is far too important to let occasional bumps and potholes keep you from contributing to your retirement portfolio. Saving regularly through up-and-down markets is bound to pay off in the end. |ret||ret||tab|

Unless you plan on retiring in a few years, you should stay with investments that have a strong potential of achieving your long-term goals. |ret||ret||tab|

Fasten your seatbelt, keep your eyes on the road, and you'll be well on your way toward your destination of a carefree retirement.|ret||ret||tab|

(David Compere is a vice president and trust officer with Springfield Trust Company, a locally owned, independent trust company.)[[In-content Ad]]