Volatility isn’t vulnerability.

Volatility has dominated the headlines for the past year. For most of us, the mere mention of the word volatility can make us nervous. That's because we associate it with financial loss but market volatility is neither new nor uncommon. Here are three lessons to keep in mind during uncertain times. First, embrace volatility, don't avoid it. Selling quickly out of fear could have a major impact on your long-term financial goals and outcomes. Swings in the market can be managed with sound investment strategies that help you see volatility as an opportunity. Second, patience and time can be rewarded. Market volatility is cyclical. What goes down usually goes back up and volatility isn't only defined by downside or negative market returns. There can also be upside and positive returns during turbulent times. History reminds us that we've been here before and patience and time are the most important attributes an investor can have. Third, diversification can be the best defense for volatility. You've probably heard the phrase "Don't put all your eggs in one basket". Diversifying your portfolio across different types of investment vehicles and asset classes such as equities and fixed income may be the best antidote to market volatility and it creates a better investment experience. With those three lessons in mind, a volatile to market can seem a lot less scary. Volatility is inevitable, but a sound financial plan and the benefit of professional advice can help the most rational investor avoid making irrational decisions.