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Looking Back at 2025: A Reminder of Why Plans Matter More Than Predictions

Garrett Hall |
Categories
Education
Strategy
Consistency

Some years drift by quietly. 2025 wasn’t one of them.

Between sharp market swings, geopolitical shockwaves, and a constant drumbeat of headlines, this year challenged even the most seasoned investors. And yet, as we wrap up December, the story isn’t just about markets—it’s about how we navigated the noise together.

A Volatile Year, in Plain English

Even if you tried to mute the headlines, the noise found its way in:

  • A rapid spring selloff that knocked nearly 20% off the market as trade tensions escalated.¹
  • Geopolitical whiplash: threats of invasions²… a 12-day Middle East conflict³… rare-earth disputes with China⁴… even U.S.–Canada tensions making headlines.⁵
  • A surge in gold as concerns about the dollar grew⁶ and the metal climbed over 60% this year.⁷
  • A government shutdown that created very real anxiety for families.⁸
  • AI-driven market mania, sending tech stocks vertical⁹ and leaving investors wondering whether they were missing out—or getting ahead of themselves.
  • Stubborn inflation¹⁰ and a softening job market¹¹ adding to the uncertainty.

All year long, one question kept resurfacing:
“Is my plan still working?”

Where Markets Ultimately Landed

Despite the turbulence, something notable happened: by early December, markets were flirting with record highs again.¹²

That's worth sitting with — not because it was easy, but because it's a reminder of how unpredictable the path can be. The year didn't reward prediction. It tested patience.

A Healthy Mindset for Unpredictable Times

At Totemic, we see years like 2025 as powerful teachers. A few lessons stand out:

• Clarity matters.
Headlines are loud, but a thoughtful plan can help keep the emotion dialed down.

• Courage is a real financial skill.
The urge to react—especially during pullbacks—is normal. Staying disciplined is where long-term results are built.

• Balance beats big swings.
Whether it's AI hype, shutdown fears, or tariff battles, a diversified and values-aligned strategy tends to hold up better than chasing trends.

• Personal goals > popular narratives.
Your financial life isn’t a popularity contest. What matters is staying aligned with your goals, your values, and your vision of success.

Looking Ahead to 2026

If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that surprises are part of the journey. We can’t control geopolitics, elections, or economic cycles—but we can control how we prepare and how we respond.

That’s the heart of real financial planning: staying grounded, intentional, and ready for whatever comes next.

If you’re wondering whether your plan is still positioned for the road ahead—or if someone in your life could use a team in their corner—we’d love to sit down and talk.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

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