The market's volatility is causing a lot of investors to resemble the title of this article. Indeed, many investors are frozen with fear and uncertainty, unable or unwilling to do anything regarding their portfolios.

Actually, such behavior is a rather normal response to turbulent markets. Turbulent markets breed confusion, and confusion breeds inaction.

Fortunately, it is during such volatile markets that long-term investors can position their portfolios for long-term gains.

The first thing to remember during tough market periods is that you are investing for the next 20 years, not the next 20 minutes. When you keep a perspective on your investment time horizon, you can deal better with short-term volatility.

The second thing to remember is that investing on a regular basis, preferably every week or month, is the best way to take advantage of a volatile market. Think about it. You were willing to invest regularly when stocks were going up? You should be even more excited about investing regularly when stocks are falling since you are buying stocks at cheaper prices.

The final thing to remember is that your chances of waiting and catching an exact market bottom before you put more money into the market are slim and none. Market timing is generally a loser's game. Thus, don't worry if you invest in a stock that declines further. If it's a quality company, it will come back.