re: Serious question about long term planning.

I am not trying to be negative nancy and chances are you will be more successful than I ever will. However, I really think you should seek the advice of a professional. You are apparently an intelligent person. Just as you went to school for many years, there are people out there that have spent their entire lives studying finance and wealth management. The right firm for you has people that have seen multiple market "crashes" and know how to navigate the rough waters. They can create a plan/strategy for you that is practical and can tweak it as often as you need according to your risk appetite. You really shouldn't hit the panic button, you are limiting your potential earnings. You are sounding a little too paranoid if I am being honest.