We all have that one friend or colleague who’s constantly sharing stock tips, crypto wins, or “hot” investment strategies. And let’s be honest it’s tempting to follow along. But here’s a question worth asking: Is their risk appetite the same as yours?

The truth is, most people confuse confidence with suitability. Just because someone is okay riding the highs and lows of a volatile stock doesn’t mean you should too. Risk appetite is deeply personal. It’s shaped by your income stability, responsibilities, goals, time horizon — and most importantly, your sleep cycle.

If a 5% market drop keeps you up at night, you’re not weak you’re self-aware. And that awareness is the foundation of smart wealth building. At Saksham Wealth, we often meet investors who entered risky assets without truly understanding them simply because “everyone else was doing it.” Unfortunately, regret often follows excitement when investments are misaligned with your personal risk profile.

Your cousin’s aggressive crypto portfolio isn’t your benchmark. Your neighbor’s real estate spree isn’t your roadmap.

Here’s what you should be asking:

  • How much loss can I emotionally and financially handle?
  • Am I investing for short-term thrills or long-term stability?
  • Does my portfolio reflect me , or someone I follow on Instagram?

Your wealth journey should feel like a tailored suit, not borrowed clothes. You don’t win by copying the boldest investor in the room. You win by understanding yourself better than anyone else does.

Know your appetite. Own your strategy. And stop investing with someone else’s stomach.

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By Rakesh Nath Srivastava

Graduate from SRCC, Delhi and a Chartered Accountant, Rakesh has over 22 years of experience in Taxation, Audit and Estate Planning. His stronghold is taxation and estate planning through WILLs and Trusts.

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