Author: Nancy Tengler, Special to USA TODAY

The American consumer is in surprisingly good shape, and investors should take note, says columnist Nancy Tengler.

Though market moves seem to make no sense, this has all happened before and will likely happen again.

Though market moves seem to make no sense, this has all happened before and will likely happen again.

Allowing this bear market to scare you out of stocks does more harm than the actual sell-off.  Have a plan for sticking with stocks.

When volatility reigns, like now, 401(k) investors can actually benefit from adding to holdings in great companies that are suddenly selling cheaply.

Corrections, even bear markets, create opportunities for patient investors. Stock prices may still face selling pressure, but here are the facts.

Resist the urge to sell when the stock market is dropping. Money is made at turning points and the crowd is rarely right at critical moments.

Rarely do investors consider defensive moves in their 401(k)s when stocks are  rallying, but that’s exactly when you should start thinking about them.

Your 401(k) is not an all or nothing bet. It is an important investment in your future. So, for goodness sake, don’t just let it ride.

Most people can invest, if only a little. Yet many individuals believe they don’t have enough money to invest outside their 401(k).