Keep your balance when the market wobbles

The stock market’s been slipping again, and I know that sinking feeling all too well. Back in 2008, I lost my home when the market crashed—caught between a shady lender and a difficult divorce. It was one of the hardest chapters of my life, but I got through it. And if there's one thing I learned, it's this: don’t panic.

Panic leads to rushed decisions, and rushed decisions often make things worse. When the numbers drop, take a breath. Step back. Markets recover—what matters most is protecting your peace and staying focused on your long-term goals. It is cliche... there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.  

Hopefully you  have a trusted financial advisor.  Have a conversation with him/her to make sure your goals and plans are in good shape.  This is also a good time to think about diversifying your income in ways that give you more control. For me, affiliate marketing has been a quiet but steady lifeline. It’s not flashy, and it takes work—but it offers flexibility and the chance to build something that isn’t tied to the stock market. If you’ve ever thought about adding a second stream of income, this might be your moment to explore that path—calmly, thoughtfully, and with confidence in your ability to rise, no matter what. It is also fulfilling to learn and put to work the new skills I acquired!

Here are a few things I remind myself (and now you) when the market gets shaky:

1. Don’t panic. I know I already said it, but it bears repeating. Emotional decisions rarely serve us well.

2. Avoid impulsive selling. Pulling out of long-term investments in a downturn can lock in losses you might otherwise recover from.

3. Review, don't react. Take a look at your financial plan, and make adjustments only if they still align with your long-term goals.

4. **Keep your emergency fund in place and possibly add to it.  Even $10-20 a month reinforces the habit.  

5. Dont binge watch the news or financial programs.  Remember they prosper on ratings, and negativity sells.

   
   

Affiliate marketing isn’t about overnight success. It’s about sharing things you genuinely value and building trust with people who are looking for real recommendations. If you're thoughtful and consistent, it can become a meaningful part of your financial foundation.

So if you're feeling shaken by the headlines or the numbers on your retirement account, remember this: you've been through hard things before, and you've come out stronger. This can be a turning point—not an ending. And you don’t have to go it alone. panic when the market slides