Market volatility and choppy markets can wreck retirement plans—if you react the wrong way. In this episode, I share a simple framework to stay calm, avoid panic selling, and protect your long-term investing plan.

If you’re investing for retirement (or already retired), the goal isn’t to predict the market. It’s to have a repeatable plan for choppy years—so you don’t make permanent mistakes in temporary fear.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Build the right cash buffer (based on what income doesn’t cover)
• Install “panic brakes” so headlines don’t control your decisions
• Rebalance with rules (not vibes) to stay on track
• Spot hidden portfolio fragility before it hurts you
• Use a down-market spending plan to avoid selling stocks at the worst time
• Use tax-loss harvesting as a productive move when markets are down

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📊 Resources mentioned in this episode:  

- Click here for the free MAGI Calculator Template (Microsoft Excel download). Use it to estimate your MAGI for ACA plans.
- Click here for the free early retirement checklist, 12 Must-Do Steps to Retire Sonner and Smarter

📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1

🌐 More from me:
All my videos, podcast episodes, and freebies: https://mikeupland.com

💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.

👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap

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DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.