When markets are rising and confidence is high, investing can feel easy.

Almost any decision looks like a good one. It is when uncertainty creeps in, when headlines turn negative, and sentiment becomes fragile that the real work begins.

Economic slowdowns, geopolitical tensions, shifting interest rate expectations, and rapid technological change can all make investors second-guess themselves. In moments like these, the temptation is either to do nothing or to chase whatever feels safest at the time.

Over the years, I’ve found that uncertain periods aren’t a reason to step away from investing. They’re a reason to tighten my focus.

Here’s what I look for in ASX shares when the outlook feels murky.