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Could Your Investments Use a Spring Clean?
Written by The Inspired Investor Team* | Published on March 29, 2021
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Updated May 2025
Spring is a natural time to reset — not necessarily with big, sweeping changes, but with a thoughtful look at what’s working and what might need adjusting. A few smart questions now can help you stay aligned with your goals, whatever the market brings next.
1. Do I have too many different accounts in different places?
Having accounts all over the place can feel like flexibility — but it could lead to confusion and missed opportunities. Without a clear view of where your money is and what it’s doing, it’s harder to make intentional choices. Consolidating (or at least tracking) can bring clarity and more efficient decision-making.
2. Has my investing style kept up with my life changes?
What worked when you started investing might not fit where you are now. Maybe you’ve changed jobs, moved cities or just grown your financial confidence. Staying anchored to an outdated approach can limit your growth — it’s worth asking if your strategy still fits your current needs and goals.
3. Am I too focused on investment styles and trends?
Exploring different investment styles — growth, value, ESG, crypto, etc. — isn’t necessarily bad. But combining too many might muddy your long-term plan and spread your portfolio thin. Sometimes, simplifying can help you focus on what matters most.
4. Are my habits helping or hurting my bottom line?
Investing apps make it easy to trade on impulse. Maybe you've taken on more risk than you're truly comfortable with, or perhaps you're focused on trying to time the market. It might be time to revisit your goals and why you started investing in the first place.
5. Is financial news helping me decide — or stressing me out?
Are you doom scrolling the markets a little too much? Staying informed is good, but if market news has become a daily anxiety spiral, it might be time to reset. Information overload — especially during volatile times — can lead to snap decisions and fear-based moves.
6. Is my portfolio built for today’s risks — not just yesterday’s plan?
Life changes. Markets change. What felt “balanced” a few years ago might be riskier or more conservative now. Taking time to revisit your asset mix helps ensure you’re still aligned with how much risk you want to take — and how much you need to.
7. Am I clear on what I’m working toward — or just coasting?
Without clear goals, investing can feel like spinning wheels — you’re putting money in, but what for? Revisiting your “why” (a trip, a home or early retirement) can help you stay focused, motivated and less likely to veer off course when markets get choppy.
*With files from Rita Silvan
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