'If you're going through hell, keep going'

Bear markets, which can feel like hell for investors, are temporary.

A man sits cross-legged in a zen pose on top of his desk as papers fly around his head, keeping calm amid the volatility.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

"If you're going through hell, keep going."

The above quote is often attributed to Winston Churchill. It sounds like something he might have said, although there is no evidence to suggest that it was, in fact, his.

As per Quote Investigator, it's possible that it was adopted from a different source, such as "Christian Science Sentinel", a religious journal, in 1943. There, the story went that a man was asked how he was, to which he replied: "I'm going through hell!". His friend responded:

"Well, keep going. That is no place to stop!"

No place, indeed.

It's been a rough ride, Fools. These past few months have tested the resolve of even the most experienced investors, and have no doubt seen many give in to the market's pessimism.

But to do so now would, I believe, be consequential. 

The market is driven not by perfect information, but instead by incomplete information compounded by investor psychology. When panic sets in, people rush for the exits and leave behind those who are more focused on the underlying businesses and long-term wealth creation.

Bear markets, which can feel like hell for investors, are temporary. And while it mightn't feel like it at the time, this is where the foundations are set for the next bull cycle. 

Companies like JB Hi-Fi Limited (ASX: JBH), an Australian discretionary retailer recently reported a record sales result. Meanwhile, many companies in the United States that have recently reported their second-quarter earnings results – Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) among them – have also surprised to the upside.

Investors who sell out now, or merely remain on the sidelines, might avoid any further pain, should the market fall further. But many will also miss out on the gains which I expect will come to those who remain patient.

I'm not trying to call the bottom of the market. I don't know when that will be, nor if it has already been. But I will echo the words that Winston Churchill may or may not have said:

"If you're going through hell, keep going."

Motley Fool contributor Ryan Newman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Netflix. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Netflix. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Investing Strategies

A man working in the stock exchange.
Growth Shares

Buy these 2 impressive ASX 300 shares in July: experts

Experts are bullish on these stocks.

Read more »

A happy young couple lie on a wooden deck using a skateboard for a pillow.
Blue Chip Shares

The best ASX shares to buy and forget for 10+ years

Want to make long term investments? Here are three picks that brokers rate as buys.

Read more »

An ASX investor in a business shirt and tie looks at his computer screen and scratches his head with one hand wondering if he should buy ASX shares yet
Blue Chip Shares

This popular ASX 200 blue-chip share has literally gone nowhere in 17 years

Even blue-chip shares can fall short.

Read more »

Middle age caucasian man smiling confident drinking coffee at home.
Dividend Investing

These dirt cheap ASX dividend stocks could rise 25% to 30%

Analysts think big returns could be on offer from these income stocks.

Read more »

Five young boys wearing small caps sit on a bench together watching a baseball game.
Small Cap Shares

5 ASX small-cap shares that screamed 114% to 362% higher in FY25

Here are some examples of ASX small-cap shares that experienced outstanding price growth in FY25.

Read more »

many investing in stocks online
Dividend Investing

Expecting volatility? Two ASX dividend shares with 5-10% yields

These investment options come with a healthy passive income stream. 

Read more »

A young man sits at his desk working on his laptop with a big smile on his face.
Growth Shares

1 of the best ASX growth stocks to consider buying in July

I’m calling this stock one of the leading growth opportunities.

Read more »

Australian dollar notes in the pocket of a man's jeans, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

Buy these top ASX dividend shares for market-beating 5% to 6% yields

These shares are being tipped as buys by analysts for income investors.

Read more »