Goosebumps, Instincts and Investing

Today, while watching the Republic Day Parade, I felt goosebumps as the battalions marched down Kartavya Path, accompanied by their bands. A similar experience struck me when patriotic songs echoed through the neighborhood. This made me wonder—would the Chief Guest at the parade, possibly a foreign dignitary, feel the same way upon hearing these slogans?

For many Indians, hearing phrases like “Jai Hind” or “Bharat Mata ki Jai” evokes a deep emotional response—one that feels almost instinctive. However, if a European were to hear similar patriotic slogans from their country, it might not stir the same emotions in us. These responses are a product of our upbringing, culture, and shared history—something we've learned and absorbed over time.

This led me to another thought: What kind of experiences evoke a universal response? Perhaps music? But even music, in some way, is tied to cultural roots. There is, however, one response that transcends culture and is hardwired into our DNA—the fight-or-flight response.

Hardwired Instincts vs. Learned Emotions

The fight-or-flight response is a primal instinct that dates back to our ancestors in the stone age. It kicks in when we perceive a threat, like a wild animal in the jungle. While patriotic slogans evoke a learned emotional response, the fight-or-flight reaction is an automatic survival mechanism, deeply ingrained in our biology.

In today’s world, this instinct often misfires in situations that don't pose a direct physical threat—such as volatile financial markets. The same instinct that once ensured our survival now compels us to react irrationally when stock prices fall. Fear takes over, rational thinking goes out the window, and we end up panic-selling investments—just like fleeing from a predator.

Behavioral finance experts, like Morgan Housel, have emphasized that managing money is more about controlling emotions than crunching numbers. Recognizing our instincts and biases can help us take a more measured and disciplined approach to investing.

How to Overcome Emotional Biases in Investing

While we can't eliminate our fight-or-flight response, we can train ourselves to respond better to financial uncertainty. Here are a few strategies to stay on track:

• Have a Plan: A well-structured financial plan acts as a guidepost during uncertain times and helps you stay the course.
• Automate Investments: Automating investments reduces emotional decision-making and keeps your strategy consistent.
• Diversify Wisely: Spreading investments across different assets minimizes risk and reduces the feeling of threat during downturns.
• Take a Long-Term View: Markets move in cycles; short-term volatility is not a reason to panic. Focus on long-term growth.
• Pause Before Reacting: Just as deep breathing calms nerves, stepping back before making financial decisions can prevent impulsive mistakes.

So, the next time the market takes a wild turn, take a deep breath and remember—your instincts might not always have your best financial interests in mind.

P.S.: Since the start of 2025, financial markets have been extremely volatile. Experts predict similar behavior for the rest of the year. Consider 2025 the "Year of Patience" for equity markets. Keep accumulating units through SIPs and occasional lump sum investments.

P.S.S.: Please share if you have experienced similar emotions while handling your finances.

Prasad Patwardhan

VittaSiddhi

QPFP®

Expectation Setting in Personal Finance: A Key to a Smoother Journey

If you've ever commuted during peak hours in a bustling city, you'd know how traffic conditions worsen as the clock ticks closer to rush hour. Roads get congested, local trains and metros overflow with people, and the journey can often feel exhausting. But those who set the right expectations—whether it's mentally preparing for the crowd, choosing a different route, or simply adjusting their travel time—tend to handle it better. Some even find ways to enjoy the ride.

Take, for instance, the constant honking on the roads. Drivers honk impatiently, as if given a chance, they would fly over the vehicle in front of them. In Mumbai, it's common to hear someone sarcastically ask the honking driver, “Udke jayega kya?” (Will you fly over?). This lighthearted remark perfectly captures the importance of setting the right expectations—understanding that traffic jams are inevitable and honking won’t magically clear the road. The same mindset applies to personal finance.

Many people set unrealistic expectations when it comes to saving, investing, or achieving financial goals. They hope for quick returns, smooth sailing, and no surprises. But just like traffic and crowded trains, financial journeys come with ups and downs—market fluctuations, unexpected expenses, and periods of slow growth.

Setting realistic expectations helps you stay prepared and avoid frustration. When you acknowledge that financial growth is often gradual and requires patience, you're less likely to feel discouraged by short-term setbacks. Instead of being overwhelmed, you'll focus on long-term progress, much like how a well-planned commute feels more manageable.

Expectation setting isn't about lowering ambitions; it's about being practical. Whether you're planning for retirement, saving for a big purchase, or investing in your future, understanding the potential challenges ahead allows you to stay calm and focused. You learn to adapt, adjust your financial "route," and ultimately, enjoy the journey without unnecessary stress.

So, take a moment to assess your financial expectations. Are they aligned with reality? If not, it might be time to recalibrate and embrace the journey with a balanced mindset—just like a seasoned commuter navigating the daily rush.

Prasad Patwardhan

VittaSiddhi 

QPFP®