'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."

Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

Scott just revealed what he believes could be the 'five best ASX stocks' for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now...

See The 5 Stocks *Returns as of 30 April 2025

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

Concept image of a businessman riding a bull on an upwards arrow.
Cheap Shares

3 beaten-down ASX 200 shares to consider buying before the next bull market

These shares could be cheap according to analysts. Here's why now they could be a buy.

Read more »

Man holding a calculator with Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.
Dividend Investing

A 5% yield? Here's the dividend forecast for an ASX 200 powerhouse

Are the generous dividends growing or getting smaller? Let's find out.

Read more »

A male investor sits at his desk looking at his laptop screen holding his hand to his chin pondering whether to buy Macquarie shares
Dividend Investing

This 10% ASX dividend stock is my top pick for immediate income

This business offers a lot of what income investors are looking for.

Read more »

A happy construction worker or miner holds a fistful of Australian dollar notes.
Dividend Investing

Buy Rio Tinto and these ASX dividend shares in May

Analysts expect good yields from these buy-rated shares.

Read more »

A male investor sits at his desk looking at his laptop screen holding his hand to his chin pondering whether to buy Macquarie shares
Dividend Investing

Top broker forecasts this quality ASX 200 dividend share could surge 45%!

A leading broker forecasts outsized gains ahead for this high-yielding ASX 200 dividend stock.

Read more »

Some kids fly a kite in strong winds at sunset.
Cheap Shares

Childcare in focus this Federal Election: how much upside does Macquarie expect for G8 Education shares?

Here’s why a broker is bullish about this stock.

Read more »

A couple sitting in their living room and checking their finances.
Dividend Investing

Beat falling interest rates with these growing ASX dividend shares

Analysts think these shares could be top picks for income investors now interest rates are falling.

Read more »

A man looking at his laptop and thinking.
Growth Shares

What I'd buy with $2,000 on the ASX right now

Here are three options for investors to look at this month.

Read more »