You are comparing orange with apples.

What is the status of stock market at the beginning of 1980? The stock market just experienced a lost 20 years from 1960-1980. What is the status of the stock market at the starting of this year? The stock market just enjoyed a 13 year of stellar bull market thanks to the Fed's extra loose money policy. Now US stock market is facing a challlenge unseen since 1910s. If you stick to the mindset formed during the last bull market, your portfolio might suffer a catastropic damage. Sorry if you feel my comments are too harsh. I do not mean to hurt you. YMYD.