Your 401(k): Why Pressing Pause Could Cost You

When the stock market takes a tumble, it’s easy to hit the panic button on your 401(k) contributions. And with prices up at the grocery store and talk of a possible recession, I hear this concern from clients all the time. But as a financial advisor (and fellow market-watcher), I can tell you that sticking with your retirement plan, even in a down market, is one of the smartest financial planning moves you can make.

A recent SUCCESS Magazine article dug into why you should keep contributing to your 401(k)—even when the headlines are scary. Markets are notoriously hard to time; if you pause contributions, you risk missing out on the gains when things rebound. More importantly, stopping your 401(k) not only breaks a valuable savings habit, but also makes it likely you’ll spend that “extra” cash instead of saving it. As I noted in the article, with all the streaming services, online subscriptions, and daily expenses, it’s easy to lose track and let your budget drift. Plus, pausing contributions—even for just a year—can set your retirement goals back by tens of thousands of dollars thanks to the lost compounding. The bottom line? Regular, disciplined investing—through good times and bad—is core to every successful retirement plan, wealth management strategy, and financial wellness journey.

If you’re worried about your own investment plan, need retirement planning advice, or just want to review your 401k strategy with a fiduciary financial advisor, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you build confidence in your long-term plan—no matter what the headlines say.

🟢https://www.success.com/401k-contributions-when-the-stock-market-is-down/