Times have been tough for just about everyone this year. Inflation has hurt companies' earnings and consumers' wallets. Worries about the economy have made the situation even worse. Major indexes have dropped in the double digits. The S&P 500 Index even posted its worst first half since 1970.

But this doesn't mean we should stop investing in stocks. In fact, now is a great time to add to positions or discover new-to-us companies. Before getting started, though, let's look at three things the smartest investors are doing right now. And let's follow their lead.

What's one of the major keys to investment success? Taking a long-term view. That means considering where a particular company will be at least five years down the road -- and investing if the outlook is bright.

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Source Fool.com