“Don’t panic” and “Invest when markets are down” is usually easier said than done. Going through volatile markets can feel like a really long time, but when zoomed out, it is but a mere blip in history.

Ronald Read died at age 92 with assets over US$8M. Having worked as a gas station attendant for over 20 years and later swept floors at a department store, many were shocked at his accumulated wealth. There is no other industry in the world besides investing where an inexperienced person is able to get a leg up on the best and brightest. Why is this so?

Lately, financial media have been pushing out opinions from billionaires, banks, investment managers and just about anybody who wants to appear smart, on the breadth, depth and scope of the “upcoming recession”. So what does all of this mean to you and your money?

Many investors may feel uneasy over news that the US is currently in a bear market, but what exactly is a bear market? What does that mean for your goals and dreams? Is it a signal to sell or buy? The uncertainty and the weight of not knowing what to expect is very often too much for many investors to bear.

How should investors react to market declines? Should they prevent losses by selling or buy more stocks at a favourable discount? Even then, when is the best time to do so?

What would happen if you followed the advice of well known investors, hedge fund managers and strategists - supposed experts in their field. Are they really able to beat the market?

In the face of predictions about an upcoming recession, here are some actions you can take without touching your investments.