RIA value is exciting when the dynamism of moderation is understood and put in the right words

Ever watch a game where the big under dog is hangin tough in the early stages- it may be tied, close or the dog may even have taken a lead? The dog rises to the occasion based on energy, excitement, adrenalin, effort...which only lasts so long. Once in awhile they pull a huge upset but generally the team with the better plan, implementation and consistency wins. The old blocking and tackling The investment business in not that much different and the long term winners do take the emotion out of it. That is why there are investment policy statements (IPS)- that's the blueprint providing discipline and guidelines for how an asset pool is invested...and it is actionable. It is also the document which tempers the natural tendency to chase the hot dot, the latest fad etc. This is not exciting- just blocking and tackling. 08 was really hard- but for those sticking to their IPS (rebalancing) did fine- those who let their emotions dominate lost! Maybe an advisor can hit that turn around, 3 pointer off the glass once in a while...but that isn't how you win the game

Well said, Brooke. It's the person who can see the challenge of committing to the mundane as exciting and joyful and take that step. Angela Duckworth's book, Grit, highlights that often success comes to those who commit to an ideal and don't waver.; they take pride in doing the basics over and over, believing, then knowing, they're on the right track to succeed.