Should I set up recurring automatic investments or manually buy in when I think prices are low?

Automating a fixed amount into index funds on a set schedule almost always beats trying to time your buys. Decades of data show that even professionals rarely predict short-term dips, and waiting for a 'better price' often means sitting in cash while the market climbs past you. Automatic investing enforces dollar-cost averaging, removes emotion, and makes sure you actually invest instead of overthinking it. Set a recurring purchase for the day after payday so the money goes to work before you can spend it. You can always add extra during obvious downturns if you have spare cash and the stomach for it, but that should supplement, not replace, your automatic plan. The habit of consistent, automatic investing is a far bigger driver of long-term wealth than clever entry points.