Over the last few weeks, investors reading the news headlines, tuning into CNBC or checking their account balances, have taken note of an uptick in volatility. It’s hard not to pay attention when markets turn choppy. Some begin to wonder if they should take action.

But market ups and downs—what investors call volatility—aren’t a sign that something is wrong. They’re a normal part of how investing works. We all want the long-term growth that comes from owning stocks. What we don't want are the uncomfortable stretches that come with it. Unfortunately, you can't separate the two. The superior long-term returns equities provide relative to other asset classes are available precisely because markets are uncertain and prices move around.

Last month, many found themselves entertaining fantastical “what-if” scenarios should they beat the odds and pick the winning Powerball numbers. Despite the low likelihood of suddenly becoming a billionaire, many will spend more time considering such an outcome than they will thinking about the more realistic scenarios that can result in receiving a windfall. Benjamin Connard, CFA, Principal of Carnegie, discussed this very thing with Fox5. 

Whether from an inheritance, the sale of a business or property, a divorce settlement, or insurance proceeds, a sudden influx of wealth can be life changing. While the opportunities are substantial, so are the complexities. Many individuals find themselves unsure of where to begin, what questions to ask, or how to make thoughtful decisions during what is often an emotionally charged time.