Welcome to today's episode! I recently talked to over 200 retirees to uncover their best advice for a fulfilling retirement. Interestingly, the biggest takeaway had nothing to do with money. Many retirees stressed the immense importance of emotional fulfillment and purpose during retirement, with some saying, “Dreaming of retirement and the reality of retirement are two different things.”

For instance, Kevin Foster, who saved over $700,000, emphasized starting early and putting something away, no matter how small. Meanwhile, Donna Davis shared her regret of not saving more, realizing too late that “you have to save your money early because you’ll need it in retirement.”

What stood out was this: many felt lost without work. David John of AARP noted that half of those unretired pointed to a need for “purpose in life and social connection.” Louis Belline echoed this sentiment, saying, “I don’t want my brain to atrophy,” showcasing that staying active is often just as meaningful as financial stability.

Ultimately, retirement isn’t just about money; it’s about finding fulfillment, whether that be through travel, work, or spending time with loved ones. As Bill Watts, a retiree with a million-dollar nest egg, put it, “I did not come from wealth, but I did almost everything I ever dreamed about doing.” So, as you think about your future, remember that happiness often lies in purpose, not just finances.
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