We all know that timing the market can be so tough over the long term. So many books and courses sell this online but few of them match up to expectations.

Recently, I have met with an investor who said she lost almost $50k with the recent experience of the markets and specific stocks of big names that seemed valuable.

The fact is, market timing is tricky, because big gains and losses can come in relatively short periods. Not even the professionals have much of a track record in successfully negotiating these unpredictable twists and turns.

So what can we do to give us a better experience? These are exactly the same steps I take to reframe.

1) Focus on the long term

Markets in the short term provides extreme variable outcomes. In the long term, it provides strength in long term growth, if a person is willing to stick through it.

2) Construct a portfolio that can weather through all seasons.

Diversification is your best friend. The right mix of allocation depends on your age, goals and circumstances. Whatever your risk capacity, diversification is key. Spreading your risk across different asset classes and geographies will reduce the impact of a steep decline in one particular market or sector. Ultimately, it’s your asset allocation that’s going to be the most important driver of your investment returns.

3) Rebalance appropriately

Touching your portfolio too often creates emotional stress. But a strategic, structured and disciplined way of rebalancing that reflects your needs and circumstances will bring out the best outcome for you.

4) Have sufficient cash and take opportunities

Having 3-6 months of emergency buffer will be able to provide for unexpected scenarios. And those who feel nervous in a downturn can hold slightly more cash. In fact, if a person has the appetite and time horizon, downturns can create opportunities for buying during a “sale”.

These are steps that I have adopted for myself and the clients we work with.

How about you, how do you create better personal strategies than timing the market so you can still have a comfortable life over the longer term?