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What to Remember: In the movie Gladiator, Maximus asks the stunned crowd, “Are you not entertained?! Is this not why you are here?!” Investors facing volatility should ask themselves the same question: Did you think markets would rise forever without turbulence? History proves that external shocks—wars, inflation, political turmoil—are always part of the financial landscape. Yet, over decades, markets have consistently recovered and grown. Volatility isn’t a flaw in investing—it’s the price of admission. Without risk, there’s no reward.

If your instincts are telling you to pull out of the market, it’s a sign your expectations weren’t set properly. Just like fire drills prepare us for real emergencies, disciplined investors plan for downturns before they happen. But if you didn’t, consider this your “mid-fire fire drill.” Stay focused on what you can control: your time horizon, diversification, and behavior. A well-balanced portfolio—including stocks, bonds, and alternative assets—helps weather these storms.

Key Takeaways: If you don’t have a solid investment plan, now is the time to create one that helps you stay on course. The world is unpredictable, but by embracing the process, you’re more likely to come out ahead.