Josh Hoskin Smart Money jhoskin@goldridge.co.nz

Roller coasters can be scary, especially as you get a little older, but they sure are a good lesson in life – without the speed and danger they would be just another train ride.

Investment markets can be very similar, the ups and downs of markets nowadays publicised daily can sure be frightening. Does this mean we should not participate? Perhaps for those that don't have the appetite, but without risking anything you may well be sentencing yourself to a life time of mediocrity.

Please remember we are talking about calculated risk, not speculation – just as you should think first before jumping onboard a rusty roller coaster with a slightly disconcerting creak – keep your eyes open.

With that in mind, I have decided to help raise funds for the Leukemia and Blood Foundation by attempting to play 100 holes of golf at the Wairakei Golf Club on October 7 as part of what they call the Marrowthon – an annual event also held in Christchurch.

This will not be easy, but I am looking forward to the challenge. If you would like to donate please visit www.marrowthon.org.nz and search for my name using the ‘Search for a fundraiser' tab on the right-hand side, then follow the payment instructions.

Keep experiencing life like today is your last day, because as we all know, despite all the promises to the contrary tomorrow never quite arrives.

The article is based on personal opinion and may not be representative of the views of Goldridge Ltd. Josh Hoskin is an authorised financial adviser with Goldridge Wealth Management. A copy of his Disclosure Statement is available free on request. This article is not personalised advice under the Financial Advisers Act 2008. Readers should not act on any suggestions in this column without taking professional advice that takes into account their current circumstances and appetite for risk.