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Lumen Employees: Is Timing the Market Worth the Risk?

Lumen employees navigating volatile markets should remember that staying disciplined with a long-term financial plan can often lead to more favorable outcomes than reacting emotionally to short-term headlines. – Kevin Landis, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

Lumen employees should remember that emotional decisions and market timing can derail years of disciplined planning—staying the course with a tailored strategy is often the most effective path to long-term success. – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

Why market timing can carry significant risk—even when headlines seem clear.
How emotional decisions may influence long-term investment outcomes.
The value of sticking to a customized financial plan.

Unforeseen events can significantly influence investor outcomes, as recent market activity has demonstrated. Amid ongoing volatility, the markets have been experiencing unpredictable ups and downs. Lumen employees who exited the market before recent spikes may have missed out on potential returns. Similarly, selling into a down market may crystalize losses, impacting the long-term performance of a portfolio.

Tyson Mavar, a wealth manager and financial advisor at Wealth Enhancement, states, “This is precisely why we advise clients not to attempt to time the market.” Trying to forecast what happens next can often lead to subpar results, especially for Lumen employees focused on retirement goals.

Mavar highlighted that reacting to fear during market turbulence can throw long-term planning off track. Investors who follow a disciplined, strategic framework often experience more favorable results over time—particularly important for Lumen professionals preparing for retirement with significant pensions and savings.

At Wealth Enhancement, the emphasis is on consistent planning rather than reacting to daily headlines. Their methodology is designed to adapt through fluctuations, anchored in long-term objectives. “We help clients focus on what’s within their control—such as investment planning, portfolio structure, and saving behaviors,” Mavar noted—guidance that Lumen employees may find helpful when facing market ups and downs.

Historical data shows that maintaining investment positions during market disruptions tends to result in better outcomes. Trying to exit and reenter markets at precisely the right time rarely works—and can often lead to missed opportunities during major rebounds. For Lumen employees nearing retirement, staying consistent may yield better outcomes than trying to chase timing strategies.

The central message for anyone at Lumen rethinking their portfolio or hesitant about reentering the market: have a thoughtful financial plan in place before markets fluctuate. Results often stem from consistency and preparation, not from spur-of-the-moment decisions.

A recent DALBAR study (2023) found that the average equity fund investor earned just 6.81% annually over a 30-year period—substantially lower than the S&P 500’s 10.12% annualized return. This gap was largely attributed to emotional investment behavior, such as exiting during downturns and reentering too late. For Lumen employees, this data emphasizes the potential value of consistent investment strategies during job transitions and retirement planning.

Want to know how missing the right moment can impact your financial future? This article highlights the risks of reactive investing, offers time-tested strategies, and illustrates how aligning with a structured retirement-focused plan can help navigate unpredictable markets—particularly for Lumen employees in transition.

Trying to time the market is like attempting to hop onto a moving train in the dark. It might work occasionally, but more often, it leads to missteps. Markets can change course quickly based on unexpected developments. Long-term investors—like Lumen retirees with a structured approach—often benefit from staying the course, much like a traveler who follows a steady itinerary rather than chasing every departing train. According to DALBAR (2023), those who remain consistent tend to outperform those making frequent timing decisions.

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Sources:

1. DALBAR, Inc. 30th Annual Quantitative Analysis of Investor Behavior (QAIB) Report . 2024, pp. 1–3.

2. Benz, Christine. A Down-Market Survival Guide for Retirees. Morningstar , Sept. 2022.

3. Financial Strategies Group . Emotional Investing Part 2: The Costs of Investing Emotionally. 2024.

4. The Wall Street Journal Staff. How to Make Major Money Decisions Right Now: A WSJ Guide. The Wall Street Journal , Apr. 2025.

5. Morningstar Research Team . Does Tolerance for Risk Change in Retirement? Morningstar , Nov. 2024.

What specific retirement benefits does Lumen Technologies, Inc. offer to employees who have dedicated many years of service to the company? In what ways do these benefits reflect Lumen's commitment to taking care of its employees post-retirement, and how do they align with the company's overall values regarding employee welfare and support?

Retirement Benefits: Lumen Technologies offers its employees retirement benefits that include 401(k) plans and pension options, reflecting its commitment to post-retirement welfare. These benefits are aligned with Lumen’s values of providing security and care for its employees after years of dedicated service. They are designed to ensure long-term financial stability for retirees, aligning with Lumen's mission of enhancing employee well-being(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

As an employee of Lumen Technologies, Inc., how can you effectively plan for your retirement to maximize your benefits? What factors should you consider, and what resources does Lumen provide to help employees navigate the complexities of retirement planning to ensure a secure financial future?

Retirement Planning: As an employee of Lumen Technologies, you should consider factors like years of service, retirement plan contributions, and projected retirement age to maximize your benefits. Lumen provides resources such as retirement calculators and financial planning tools to help employees navigate these complexities and secure their financial future post-retirement(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

How do Lumen Technologies, Inc.'s retirement plans compare with the industry standards? In which areas can Lumen improve its offerings to remain competitive and retain top talent while ensuring the financial security of its employees in their retirement years?

Comparison with Industry Standards: Lumen’s retirement plans are competitive within the industry, but improvements could be made in areas such as enhanced pension offerings or matching contributions in the 401(k) plans to attract and retain top talent. This would ensure financial security for employees in their retirement years while keeping Lumen competitive in the market(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

Can you explain the role of the HRCC (Human Resources and Compensation Committee) at Lumen Technologies, Inc. in overseeing employee retirement plans? What measures does this committee take to ensure that retirement benefits remain aligned with the organizationâ€™s goals and employee expectations?

HRCC Role in Retirement Plans: The Human Resources and Compensation Committee (HRCC) at Lumen oversees retirement benefits to ensure they align with the company’s goals and employee expectations. The committee reviews and updates the plans regularly, ensuring they remain relevant and meet both the company’s financial objectives and the needs of its employees(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

What changes to federal regulations or IRS limits in 2024 could potentially impact Lumen Technologies, Inc.'s retirement plans? How should employees prepare for these potential changes to ensure they are fully utilizing their benefits?

Federal Regulation Changes in 2024: Changes to IRS limits or federal regulations, such as adjustments to contribution caps or tax deductions, could impact Lumen’s retirement plans. Employees should stay informed about these changes to fully utilize their benefits, and Lumen’s HR team provides updates and resources to assist in navigating these regulatory adjustments(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

How does Lumen Technologies, Inc. ensure that all employees are aware of their retirement options? What communication strategies does the company employ to make sure employees understand the specifics of their retirement benefits and the necessary steps for enrollment or participation?

Employee Awareness of Retirement Options: Lumen employs a variety of communication strategies, including workshops, online resources, and HR consultations, to ensure that employees are aware of their retirement options. Regular updates and easy access to information help employees understand the steps needed for enrollment or participation(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as death or disability, how does Lumen Technologies, Inc. protect the retirement benefits of its employees and their families? What provisions are specifically designed to support employees and their loved ones during these challenging times?

Protection of Retirement Benefits: In cases of death or disability, Lumen has provisions to protect retirement benefits for employees and their families. Survivor benefits and disability accommodations are designed to provide continued financial security for employees and their loved ones during challenging times(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

For employees nearing retirement at Lumen Technologies, Inc., what strategies should they adopt to ensure they transition smoothly out of the workforce? What resources or programs does Lumen offer to assist employees during this significant life change?

Transitioning to Retirement: Employees nearing retirement at Lumen can benefit from financial planning tools and transition programs offered by the company. These resources help ensure a smooth exit from the workforce and provide the necessary support for this significant life change(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

How is Lumen Technologies, Inc. addressing the challenges of an aging workforce regarding retirement readiness? What initiatives or programs are in place to help older employees prepare for retirement and to facilitate knowledge transfer to younger employees?

Addressing an Aging Workforce: Lumen is addressing retirement readiness through programs that help older employees prepare for their transition into retirement. These initiatives include financial education, retirement planning resources, and mentorship programs to facilitate knowledge transfer to younger employees(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

For employees who wish to learn more about the retirement benefits and planning processes offered by Lumen Technologies, Inc., what contact methods are available? How can employees reach out to the appropriate department for detailed inquiries and assistance regarding their retirement options?

Contact Methods for Retirement Inquiries: Employees wishing to learn more about Lumen’s retirement benefits can reach out to the HR department via phone, email, or the company’s internal benefits portal. Lumen’s HR team provides detailed assistance regarding retirement options and planning(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).