Making good financial decisions can be stressful. There are so many investment choices, changing economic conditions, and personal situations to consider that it can feel overwhelming to know what to do.

When making financial decisions, we often get confused by mixed messages from different sources and our own emotional biases. These decisions matter because they affect our future financial security.

Many people ask financial advisers for help. But we’ve found that getting better results isn’t about finding new answers – it’s about asking better questions.

Questions to Avoid

People often ask the wrong questions about their finances. This happens because they’re influenced by financial news, advice from friends and family, and oversimplified financial rules that don’t fit their specific situation.

When we ask the wrong questions, our fears and emotions can lead us to make poor financial choices.

Here are some common questions that aren’t helpful:

1. What will the stock market do in the next few months?
2. How can I get the biggest returns quickly?
3. Should I invest in whatever is popular right now?
4. Is this the perfect time to buy or sell?
5. Should I keep all my money in cash?

When you’re deeply involved in your own finances, it can be hard to think clearly. That’s why getting an outside perspective can be so valuable.

Focusing on these short-term questions often leads to stress and rushed decisions that can harm your long-term financial health.

While clients come to us wanting answers to these questions, we know that learning to ask better questions is more important.

Better Questions to Ask

We’ve learned that asking the right questions helps people develop a healthier approach to money and make better decisions.

Instead of focusing on quick fixes, these questions help you think about the bigger picture of your financial future.

Here are some helpful questions to consider:

1. What are my long-term money goals, and will this decision help me reach them?
2. Will this choice help me become or stay financially independent?
3. How has this investment performed over time, and how risky is it?
4. Can I stick with this investment even when markets go down?
5. How does this fit into my overall financial plan?
6. What life changes might affect this decision?
7. How will this impact my family and others who depend on me?

Having a list of good questions helps you make better investment decisions, whether you’re working with an adviser or managing money on your own.

Take A Step Back

To make better financial decisions, start by asking better questions. This approach helps you understand your finances better and make more confident choices.

We believe that focusing on the right questions leads to better financial decisions and results in the long run.

When making financial decisions, take time to think about what questions you should be asking. If you’re our client, we’ll continue helping you think through these decisions as your financial partner.