As stock markets around the globe start to rev up again, the siren call of higher returns will get louder and louder. The recent crash may have jolted you out of your slumber in terms of your asset allocation; you probably have more in bonds than you did before the crash, but that new pragmatic approach to investing may not stand a chance against the temptation of higher returns. Of course, with higher returns comes higher risk.

Before you make any significant changes to your portfolio, I highly recommend reviewing your short-term and especially your long-term financial goals. Taking on more risk while the stock market is doing well may feel like the smart thing to do, but the question to ask yourself is this: What’s the least amount of risk I need to take in order to reach my goals?

It’s tempting and it always will be tempting to take shortcuts regardless of the task. When it comes to investing, this temptation often leads to negative consequences. Attempting to beat the market by taking on much higher risk than you are comfortable with may get you to the finish line sooner. But it could also set you way back.