Investing is for the long-term. At New Light, we show financial advisors the evidence for this. We share with advisors that the correct holding period (for a diversified pool of equities, like a unit trust) is at around 10 years. Investing for such long periods can seem very daunting.

Ten years is a long period of time. It is akin to a marriage, which is expected to last for the long-term. Actually, forever. But it’s not easy to keep a marriage going for long. It’s so much easier to fall in love.  You are young, energetic, optimistic at your physical best.

In a marriage, many things will change. You see each other every day and each other’s bad or irritating habits are on full display. The arrival of children, while creating much beauty and joy also changes things. Priorities become different. You may not have time for each other or even realise its importance. Working on the relationship, requires effort, understanding, tolerance, patience and learning to be happy with oneself. It’s not easy.