Total Return YTD % (9 Sep 16)

The Total Return Historical Data shows how each index has performed on a yearly basis.  Over the long-term, the stock market has proven to be a very good investment, however from year to year the returns can be very volatile. 

Calendar Year	S&P 500 (SPY)	Russell 2000 (IWM)	Nasdaq 100 (QQQ)	Wilsh 5000 (VTI)
2016	5.7%	8.6%	2.7%	6.1%
2015	1.3%	-4.5%	9.4%	0.4%
2014	13.5%	5.0%	19.2%	12.5%
2013	32.3%	38.7%	36.6%	33.5%
2012	16.0%	16.7%	18.1%	16.5%
Avg Ret.	13.8%	12.9%	17.2%	13.8%

Monitor Market Progress:   You must monitor general market progress to make sure you are on track to reach your goal.  If you have adopted the 12% growth goal, you can break it down into a monthly goal.  As long as the general market is on track to reach your goal, 1% a month, there should be dozens of Leveraged ETFs that are also on track.