In this episode of the My Next Move podcast, behavioral expert Michael Liersch answers a question many clients have been asking lately: ‘If I want my money to work for me, why should I invest now?’ Some people are nervous, even frightened. Trade wars. Polarized politics. Rollercoaster markets. And when humans are fearful, Michael says, the mind tends to use decision rules to simplify the environment —not necessarily leading to optimal decisions. Humans faced with uncertainty tend to use the decision rule, “Take action now.” But an action bias that prompts selling low (or buying high) would just cause you to trade needlessly — to churn and burn your portfolio. Another decision rule, “Do nothing,” can be equally risky if it makes you ignore your investments. So how do you decide whether or not to invest now? Identify decision rules you may be applying. Thoughtfully revisit your investment choices regularly. Base your actions on your goals and the right time horizon to achieve them. That approach is the opposite of trying to time the market. To determine the actions that are right for you, start with your goals every time.