The economy is still sending mixed messages, with slowing growth, high interest rates, and persistent inflation. The stock market reflects that, and the hoped-for bull market still hasn't panned out. In fact, this is the longest bear market since 1973 -- longer than the bear markets resulting from the crashes in both 2001 and 2008.

Many economic experts are forecasting a recession, which would put American economic activity even deeper in the negative. No one knows what will actually happen, and surprises keep cropping up; consider the turmoil in the banking sector, with the newest casualty being First Republic Bank. 

Whatever happens over the short term, investors should remember that a bull market always follows a bear market. It's exactly at this time, when prices are down, and the forecast looks ominous, to plant seeds for the future. To prepare for that time, buy stocks that could soar in a bull market. Airbnb (NASDAQ: ABNB) and Lululemon Athletica (NASDAQ: LULU) are two top choices.

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Source Fool.com