Blocking Out the Noise
From trade disputes to unexpected world events, there’s always something happening that can unsettle markets. The article reminds us that “the traditional wisdom for any investor is to learn to ‘block out the noise.’”
If you zoom out and look back over 10, 20, or 30 years, many events that once felt dramatic end up as just small blips on a much bigger picture.
Why Long-Term Thinking Matters
If your goals are five, ten, or even twenty years away, what really matters is whether the businesses you’re invested in continue to grow and reinvest profits sensibly. Over time, these steady gains can compound into real wealth, far more impactful than short-term market swings.
As Joe Wiggins, SJP’s Investment Research Director, points out: Many “headline-grabbing events” fade into the background when viewed over a long-term horizon (St. James’s Place, 2025).
Managing Emotions
It’s human nature to feel anxious when markets fall and overly confident when they rise. But emotional reactions can often lead to poor decisions. Wiggins explains that people tend to “lurch from being overly worried … to being too complacent” (St. James’s Place, 2025).
The challenge and the opportunity lie in resisting that instinct. Sometimes, the most effective move is to do nothing and allow your plan to stay on track.
The Power of a Plan
Having a clear plan gives you something solid to hold onto when markets wobble. Whether you’re saving for retirement, helping children onto the property ladder, or simply building a safety net, your goals act as an anchor.
When you feel like making a sudden change, ask yourself: Does this fit with my long-term plan? Or is it just a reaction to today’s news?
Final Thoughts
Life often comes with competing priorities, from mortgages and family to planning for retirement. It’s easy to feel pulled in different directions when it comes to money.
But investing doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, the most powerful action is patience. Staying calm, focusing on the long term, and not letting short-term noise derail your goals can make all the difference.
Whether you choose to manage your investments on your own or with professional guidance, the principle is the same: Give your money the time and space it needs to grow.
3 Key Takeaways
- Don’t let daily news headlines drive your investment decisions.
- Focus on your long-term goals, short-term bumps usually fade over time.
- A clear plan helps you stay calm and avoid emotional choices.
Reference:
Investing – the skill in doing (almost) nothing, St. James’s Place, 15 August 2025. Read the full article here: https://partnership.sjp.co.uk/article/detail/sjpp/investing-the-skill-in-doing-almost-nothing.html
