As we set our clocks forward for Daylight Savings Time (DST), we welcome longer days and the promise of spring. While DST is often met with mixed feelings – losing an hour of sleep but gaining more daylight – it serves as a great reminder to refresh more than just our schedules. Just as we engage in spring cleaning for our homes, it’s also the perfect time to "spring clean" your investments with the help of your financial advisor.

The history and purpose of Daylight Savings Time

Daylight Savings Time was first introduced to make better use of daylight during the warmer months, with the goal of reducing energy consumption. The idea dates back to Benjamin Franklin, who humorously suggested in 1784 that adjusting schedules could save candle usage. However, it wasn’t until World War I that countries, including the U.S., officially adopted DST to conserve fuel.

Today, over 70 countries worldwide observe DST, although not all U.S. states participate. While the energy savings debate continues, one undeniable benefit is the psychological boost of longer daylight hours, which often inspires people to be more active and productive.

Applying the DST mindset to your investments

Just as we adjust our clocks to make the most of daylight, we should also adjust our financial strategies to make the most of our money.

Here’s how a DST-inspired financial refresh can help you optimize your investments:
1. Review your portfolio for seasonal adjustments

Market conditions fluctuate, much like the seasons. As spring arrives, it’s a great time to sit down with your financial advisor to ensure your investment portfolio aligns with your long-term goals.

Are you properly diversified?

Do any asset allocations need rebalancing?

Are there outdated investments that no longer serve your financial objectives?

2. Declutter underperforming investments

Much like cleaning out a cluttered closet, reviewing your portfolio can uncover investments that may no longer be serving you. Your financial advisor can help assess whether certain stocks, mutual funds, or other assets are underperforming relative to your goals. It might be time to trim losses or reallocate funds to more promising opportunities.

3. Refresh your tax strategy

Spring also marks tax season, making it an opportune time to assess how your investments are impacting your tax
liability.

Consider:

— Are you maximizing tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s?

— Could tax-loss harvesting help offset gains?

— Are there charitable giving strategies that provide both financial and personal benefits?

4. Prepare for the year ahead

Daylight Savings Time pushes us forward into a new season – apply that same forward-thinking approach to your finances.

Are there major life events on the horizon (e.g., retirement, home purchase, education expenses) that require a strategic shift?

Do your savings and investment plans need to be adjusted based on inflation or interest rate changes?

5. Reaffirm your financial goals

Just as DST reminds us of the importance of time, it’s also a good moment to reflect on long-term financial aspirations. Have your priorities changed? Does your investment strategy still align with your risk tolerance and life goals? A financial advisor can help ensure your plan stays on track.

Spring forward with financial confidence

Daylight Savings Time is more than just a time change – it’s a seasonal cue for fresh starts. By using this moment to reassess and refine your investments with your financial advisor, you can ensure that your money is working just as efficiently as your new schedule.

So, as you reset your clocks, take a moment to reset your financial plan as well. A little proactive financial “spring cleaning”  now can lead to brighter financial days ahead.

Stacy Bush is with Bush Wealth Management. This information should not be construed by any client or prospective client as the rendering of personalized investment advice.  For more information, please visit BushWealth.com for full disclosures.