Welcome to this special episode of the Happiness in Retirement podcast! Today we’re diving into a topic that we haven’t explored in depth before on the podcast: investing. While we often focus on lifestyle tips and financial planning strategies, I believe it’s crucial to discuss our investment philosophies at Del-Sette Capital Management, especially as they relate to achieving a fulfilling retirement.

In this episode, I share our core investment principles, emphasizing that investing is not merely a spectator sport. It’s an integral part of a comprehensive financial plan, and as fiduciaries, we are committed to acting in your best interest.

Key Takeaways:

1. Invest in Yourself: The greatest investment you can make is in your own health, education, and personal development. Continuous improvement is essential for long-term success.
2. Adopt an Optimistic Mindset: In a world often filled with negativity, maintaining an optimistic outlook can lead to better life satisfaction and investment decisions. I discuss the importance of viewing market declines as opportunities rather than threats.
3. Limit Portfolio Monitoring: Frequent checking of your investments can lead to emotional decision-making and poor outcomes. I highlight a study by Vanguard showing that those who check their portfolios less often tend to earn higher returns.
4. Separate Money from Emotion: Mixing emotions with investing can lead to biases that negatively impact performance. I outline common biases such as loss aversion and overconfidence, which can cloud judgment.
5. Be an Owner, Not a Loaner: I encourage listeners to invest in common stocks rather than bonds, especially for younger investors. Owning a piece of great companies can lead to better long-term growth.
6. Save and Invest for Growth: For those in the accumulation phase, I recommend saving at least 15-20% of your income and focusing on growth-oriented investments.
7. Invest for Dividends in Retirement: As you transition into retirement, I stress the importance of investing in dividend-paying stocks, which can provide a potentially reliable income stream.
8. Buy Time with Your Money: Finally, I emphasize that money should be viewed as a means to enjoy life and buy time for the things that matter most.

Throughout the episode, I remind listeners that while we cannot predict the future, we believe that adopting these philosophies can significantly enhance your chances of building a secure and enjoyable retirement.

If you find yourself uncertain about your investment strategy or alignment with your goals, I encourage you to reach out for a conversation. At Del-Sette Capital Management, we are here to help you design a portfolio and retirement income strategy that brings clarity and confidence.

Thank you for joining me today! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who is planning for their future. Until next time, stay focused, stay disciplined, and invest with purpose and optimism!