If you put all your money in at thr wrong moment, like say the Nasdaq in 99 then you waited 13 years just to break even.
But if you bought monthly you would have done very well because you averaged into the market.
The alternative is if you really understand valuations, diversification, risk and market psychology, like I do, then you can consistently beat the market. Most people cannot and most people you pay fees to do it on your behalf won't.
You could consider buying berkshire hathaway instead of a stock market index.... assuming the lead investors don't die too soon.