The big picture, to me,is not the big picture of the stock market as a whole. The big picture is about you and your investment temperament.

The big picture in success is to create a mission. This is no different with investment. What is the purpose behind your investing? This mission statement can be coupled with your temperament and values.

Plus, you must also look at your age and your need for a cash flow. A 70 year old man comfortably retired with net worth of $500,000 to $1,000,000 has needs quite different than a 40 year old man who will put two children through college.

Are you a worrier when you stock goes down .25 on paper? Then, your investment temperament and investment choices are in conflict. The greater the worry, the more your money shousl be in CD"s and Government T-Bills.

Are you am worrier but a little less so who would like income and tax benefits? Then,individual municipal bonds or bond funds would be a wise choice.

The more you can handle risk, the greater of your chances to go with growth stocks that pay little or no dividend.

Suggestion: Work with an investment planner or stock broker who has your best interests at heart. This is discovering your temperament by a style that talks less..listens more and recommends based on the investor needs and temperament.

Learn more about this author, Joseph Wardy.
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