We have been taught from a very young age that we can ‘beat’ the market. In fact, there are stock picking contests in school. Remember the contest? You are given a hypothetical portfolio and told to invest to win. These contests were for a relatively short period of time, a semester.

The ‘winner’ was given a prize. This instilled in all students that you can ‘beat’ the market. The real lesson is that investing in this way is nothing more than speculating and gambling with your money.

These contests are often sponsored by a local stock broker. Their motivation is obvious, get them young and turn them into lifelong speculators and gamblers.

If true investing was taught in school, it would require a much longer ‘teaching’ moment. True investing takes time and discipline.

Although successful stock picking is possible it is not true investing. ‘Beating’ the market is possible but highly unlikely. And most people will be disappointed.

Market returns are enough. Almost every major equity and stock market has consistently outperformed inflation and all the hyperactively trading professional money managers trying to outdo the market.

Most investors aren’t aware they have another option. Chances are you will beat all your friends and the vast majority of managers with the market returns from index funds and structured market portfolios. There is evidence proving this statement.

To become a true investor, you must own equities with short term high quality fixed income, globally diversify and rebalance.

To guide you, seek the help of an investor coach/fiduciary adviser.