Tricking Your Investment Instincts: Outsmarting your ‘Big Dumb Lizard Brain’
/Article


As a subscriber to TKer, my investment strategy primarily involves acquiring and retaining passively managed index funds rather than actively selecting stocks or timing the market. Despite veering away from stock-picking and market timing, I still maintain an appetite for risk.

Although establishing a "cowboy account" may raise concerns about engaging in more expensive risk-taking behaviors, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Ignoring your instincts and biases can also be perilous.

Neither Barry nor I are robots; we are humans with brains that can work against us if mismanaged.

The cowboy account concept helps satisfy my craving for risky ventures while keeping my primary portfolio untouched. This protects my real money from impulsive decisions influenced by emotions.

In this account, I allocate 2% of my liquid net worth for market-timing through out-of-the-money stock option calls. Barry details specific trades in his book, leaving the fine points for readers to explore.

Barry recommends setting up a "mad-money account," with less than 5% of your liquid capital to indulge in speculative activities without threatening your financial stability.

Paul Samuelson's comparison of investing to watching paint dry underscores the superiority of passive management for long-term wealth growth over the excitement of risky stock bets.

Barry's book, "How Not To Invest," shares insights on psychology, underlining the futility of making short-term market predictions and promoting the superiority of index fund investing.

Investing is akin to dieting, where completely eliminating risky behaviors may not always be feasible.

Barry's book offers practical solutions for regular investors navigating the complexities of the investment world.

If you are a TKer enthusiast, exploring Barry's book can provide valuable insights that resonate with your investment approach.

Referencing Barry's acknowledgment in his book "How NOT To Invest," I appreciate his contributions to my market perspectives since the financial crisis.

To delve deeper into Barry's viewpoints, reading his book is highly recommended.

To catch up on Barry's latest thoughts, you can access his views through his book or listen to his discussions on The Compound & Friends podcast.

Leave a Reply