Report Card

At the end of 2010, I reviewed my performance and identified some areas for adjustments.  In January, I gave myself an overall D in improving my performance in these key areas.  So it's time to take another critical look at how I'm doing.

1. Take profits sooner (A-) - I made three sales in January and three so far this month.  Although the margins have not been great, the turnover has been nice.  I've even turned one purchase over after only three days!
2. Reduce or cap investment pool (F) - Still no change.  Other investments simply have not been attractive enough.  But by investment in some premium stocks, I'm now about 50% invested.
3. Quit bottom feeding (B+) - Great improvements in this area.  I've bought into five stocks at a premium and have doubled down where appropriate.  I've also taken reasonable profits of 5% and 7% on two of these holdings (see #1 above).  Of the remaining three "premium" holdings, two are in the black!
4. Dabble in Index Funds (D) - I've picked a couple of ETFs (SPY, IVV), but have not taken the plunge.
5. Don't sweat employment (A) - "What, me worry?".

Overall Grade (B-) - I've made the best of the market and have continued to realize reasonable gains.  Although I have a lot of money on the sidelines, that gives me flexibility to move in on new opportunities.