Tune Out the Noise: How to Stay Grounded When the Market Feels Shaky

There’s nothing like a news headline to stir up financial fear.

“Markets Plunge!”
“Is This the Next Black Tuesday?”
“Recession Looms on the Horizon!”

The noise is loud right now. Whether it’s political uncertainty, global unrest, or the rollercoaster of inflation and interest rates—it’s a lot. And it’s natural to feel uneasy.

But here’s the paradox: while it feels like we should do something in response to market volatility, the best action is often… inaction.

A Lesson from 2008

When I started my financial career in 2008–2009, the world truly felt like it was falling apart. I was just a year in, working at Vanguard Mutual Funds, and every day brought another round of panic calls. Clients were convinced the market wouldn’t recover. That the system was broken. That we were witnessing the end of financial security as we knew it.

But we weren’t. And the market did recover. And then some.

I carry those memories—and the lessons they taught me—into every client conversation I have today. They’re echoed in powerful documentaries like Tune Out the Noise by Dimensional Funds, which reminds us that short-term chaos doesn’t have to derail long-term strategy.

It’s Okay to Be Concerned

Let’s normalize the experience of market volatility. You’re not weak or irrational for feeling nervous. You’re human. Our brains are wired to notice danger, and the financial news cycle thrives on triggering our fear circuits. It’s no wonder we want to take immediate action when we see red arrows and scary predictions.

And yes—it's okay to disagree with what’s happening in our economy or political system. You can absolutely work for change. Vote. Protest. Advocate. But when it comes to your investments?

That’s where you need to hold steady.

Long-Term Over Knee-Jerk

This weekend I had some neighbors over for a barbecue. Great food, good conversation. And of course, at some point, someone brought up the market drop.

They asked, “Aren’t you worried?”
I laughed and said, “I don’t even watch the news.”
Their jaws dropped. “But… you’re a financial planner.”

Exactly. That’s why I don’t watch the news. Because we don’t make investment decisions based on headlines. We make them based on long-term goals and a well-diversified, evidence-based strategy.

Our clients aren’t reacting emotionally. They’re responding thoughtfully. And when appropriate, we rebalance or adjust—not because of panic, but because of purpose.

What to Do When You're Feeling Scared

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by what you’re hearing about the market, try this simple exercise:

1. Slow down. Take a deep breath.

2. Check your investment plan. Do you have broad diversification? Are you invested according to your risk tolerance?

3. Talk it out. Sometimes you just need to voice the fear. That’s okay. We’re here for those conversations.

4. Step back from the media. Seriously. Step away from the TV or the app and go outside.

Volatility is not new. And it’s not permanent.

Your Brain Isn’t Always Your Best Financial Advisor

One of the most underappreciated aspects of investing is the neuroscience behind it. When your brain perceives risk—especially financial risk—it lights up the same areas that respond to physical danger. It’s literally trying to protect you.

But investing isn’t about survival in the moment. It’s about growth over time. And history has shown us again and again that disciplined, diversified investors are rewarded for staying the course.

So if you're feeling uncertain, you’re not alone. But you don’t have to go it alone either.

Final Thought

Tuning out the noise doesn’t mean ignoring reality—it means getting clear on what matters most, and letting that clarity guide your financial decisions.

So let the headlines shout. Let the markets swing. And let’s keep moving forward together—calm, clear, and confident.

Ready for a Plan You Both Can Feel Good About?

Market noise is loud—but your financial life together doesn’t have to be chaotic. If you and your partner are ready to build a long-term investment strategy rooted in your shared values, goals, and comfort with risk, we’re here to help.

Schedule a free consultation today and let’s talk about how to bring more calm, clarity, and confidence to your financial life—together.

Book Your Free Consultation

Wishing You Healthy Love and Money,
Ed Coambs - Founder