A Calm Approach to a Choppy Market: What Retirees Can Do Now

We all picture retirement as a time to slow down, travel more, and enjoy the freedom we worked so hard for. But what happens when that season collides with something far less peaceful—market volatility?

If you're retired or nearing retirement and feeling unprepared for a dip in the market, you're not alone. And more importantly, you're not without options.

At Colmina, we specialize in building resilient financial strategies designed to support you not just in ideal conditions, but in the unexpected ones, too. If this moment has you feeling unsure, here are a few practical steps to regain control—many of which reflect what we already guide our clients through every day.

6 Smart Moves for Retirees Facing Market Volatility

 1. Take a Fresh Look at Spending

When markets are unpredictable, one of the quickest ways to protect your portfolio is to revisit your current spending. Pressing pause on big-ticket expenses or unnecessary withdrawals, can help your retirement savings last longer—and reduce the risk of selling investments at a loss.

This reflects one of Colmina’s foundational retirement planning strategies: designing flexible withdrawal plans that adapt to life as it happens, not just as you planned it.

2. Tap Into Low-Risk Income Sources First

If you’ve built your portfolio with some fixed-income investments—like bonds or CDs—that are maturing, you may have a built-in buffer. These assets can provide income without the need to touch more volatile parts of your portfolio.

We often encourage clients to build these intentional “layers” into their retirement plans, so income needs can be met even when the market feels unsteady.

3. Be Strategic About What You Sell

Rather than liquidating stock funds that may be down, look to lower-volatility holdings like short-term bond funds. Selling these assets may give you the liquidity you need without locking in losses elsewhere.

At Colmina, our asset management approach emphasizes not just what you own, but when and why it might make sense to adjust. It’s about balance—managing risk while supporting your lifestyle.

4. Rebalance With Purpose

Market fluctuations can throw your original asset allocation out of sync. Rebalancing helps you stay aligned with your intended strategy, which may involve selling some of what’s done well and buying more of what’s undervalued.

This isn’t a one-time fix—it’s part of the ongoing portfolio monitoring and rebalancing we provide to help our clients stay on course through every market season.

5. Explore a Short-Term Income Boost

Part-time work, consulting, or even monetizing a hobby can give you breathing room during a market downturn. It’s not forever—but even a modest income can go a long way in protecting your long-term financial plan.

We regularly help clients assess not only what’s financially wise, but what’s personally fulfilling in retirement. Sometimes, bridging a short-term gap can lead to unexpected meaning, too.

6. Don’t Go It Alone

If you’re unsure how to navigate all of this on your own, it’s okay to ask for help. A trusted financial advisor can help you evaluate where you stand, what options you have, and how to move forward with clarity.

We strongly believe in partnership. Our financial planning services are built around your life—offering guidance, not just charts. We’re here to help you adapt, stay grounded, and move forward with confidence. Facing retirement in the middle of market volatility—especially if you didn’t feel prepared for it—can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to unravel everything. With thoughtful steps and a steady plan, you can protect your future without panic.

Let’s Talk About Your Next Step

Whether you're navigating market volatility for the first time or simply want to feel more confident in your plan, now is a great time to sit down with one of our advisors. We’ll help you understand where you are, explore your options, and map out a strategy that supports your goals—no matter what the markets are doing.

Schedule a meeting with a Colmina advisor today and take the next step toward a more secure, informed, and confident retirement journey.

Who We Are

At Colmina, we are dedicated to building a community centered around the well-being of those we care for. Our commitment to fiduciary advice ensures our decision-making is always in the best interest of our clients. No matter the twists and turns of the financial market, our advice will adapt to match so that your plans can stay true to the course. 

Colmina strives to earn and maintain the trust of our clients. We are dedicated to crafting customized plans and personalized portfolios that are tailored to meet your goals.

*This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor or professional for personalized recommendations.