How to Adjust Your Strategy Over Time
2025
Portfolio Design
Your portfolio isn’t set in stone — and it shouldn’t be.
Markets change. So do you. Whether it’s a life event, a shift in income, or simply getting closer to your goals, adjusting your investment strategy is not only natural — it’s smart.
Revisit your objectives regularly
Start by asking the big questions again:
Is your goal still capital preservation, income, growth, or speculation?
Has your time horizon shortened or lengthened?
Has your risk tolerance changed?
Your plan should match your current reality — not the assumptions you made years ago.
Align with your life stages
In your 20s and 30s, you may afford to take more risk and lean into growth. As you approach retirement or other major financial goals, it may make sense to shift toward preservation or income. Your strategy should evolve with you.
Monitor performance, not just returns
Don’t just look at performance in terms of how much you gained or lost. Ask:
Is this strategy doing what I hired it to do?
Is it meeting the goal I set (e.g., steady income, limited volatility, long-term upside)?
Don’t overreact — zoom out
Short-term market noise shouldn’t dictate your long-term plan. Adjusting your portfolio every time the market moves is a recipe for emotional investing. Stay focused on your timeline and strategy.
Schedule strategic check-ins
Whether quarterly, annually, or after a major life event, set calendar reminders to review your portfolio. Use that time to rebalance, reconsider allocations, and ensure you’re still on track.
