Asking Better Questions…

When it comes to financial success, things can feel pretty overwhelming. There are countless investment options, unpredictable economic conditions, and, of course, your own unique financial situation to consider. Add in conflicting advice from different sources and natural human biases, and it’s easy to see why making the right decisions can feel so difficult.

It’s in these moments that many people turn to financial advisers for guidance. And while good advice is important, we’ve found that the real key to cutting through the confusion often isn’t about finding better answers—it’s about asking better questions.

The Problem with the Wrong Questions

Too often, people approach financial decisions with the wrong questions. This isn’t their fault—it’s a natural response to the influence of financial media, well-meaning friends and family, and general investment “rules of thumb” that don’t always fit individual circumstances.

The trouble is, the wrong questions can lead to short-term thinking, unnecessary stress, and decision-making that actually works against long-term financial security.

Here are some of the most common ones we hear:

Where is the stock market heading in the next few months?

How can I maximise my returns in the short term?

Should I invest in the latest hot thing?

Is now the right time to buy or sell a particular investment?

Is it safer to keep my money in cash right now?

It’s completely understandable why people ask these questions—they’re trying to make sense of an unpredictable world. But focusing too much on them often leads to short-term, emotionally driven decisions rather than a solid long-term plan.

One of the biggest benefits of working with a financial adviser is gaining an external perspective—someone to help you step back, refocus, and start asking the right questions instead.

The Power of Better Questions

When you start asking the right questions, things begin to fall into place. The right questions shift your focus away from short-term tactics and towards the bigger picture—helping you make clearer, more confident decisions that align with your financial goals.

While the best questions will depend on your personal situation, here are a few we believe are particularly valuable:

What are my long-term financial goals, and how does this decision impact them?

How will this choice affect my ability to reach or maintain financial independence?

What has historically happened with this type of investment in different market conditions?

Can I stick with this investment through market downturns without panicking?

How does this decision fit into my overall financial strategy?

What major life changes am I expecting that could influence this decision?

How will this choice impact the people who depend on me financially?

By shifting your focus from short-term speculation to long-term strategy, you’ll gain a clearer sense of direction and make decisions with far more confidence.

Taking a Step Back

At the heart of it all, asking better questions is one of the most powerful tools for navigating the investment world. It leads to a stronger understanding of your financial situation, greater confidence in your decision-making, and ultimately, better outcomes in the long run.

So, next time you find yourself feeling uncertain about a financial decision, take a step back. Ask yourself not just what the answer is, but whether you're even asking the right question.

And for those of you who already work with us, don’t worry—we’ll be right there with you, helping you ask the right questions and supporting you as you move forward on your financial journey.