As a working American, you’ve likely dreamed of the day when you can finally hang up your hat for good and retire. Some dream of traveling the world, or moving to a tropical area, or simply spending time indulging in hobbies. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality for many retirees.
A recent study from MedicareFAQ found 59% of respondents are concerned about their financial situation in retirement. Meanwhile, 60% say they wish they would have started saving for retirement earlier or contributed more to their retirement savings.
Fortunately, there are steps working Americans can take now to achieve financial security in retirement and avoid living with regret.
Trying to financially plan for life decades into the future is overwhelming. Health care costs, longer life expectancies, inflation and cost-of-living increases are just some of the considerations when you’re figuring out how much money to save. These four tips can help you prevent regret in retirement:
1. Decide how you want to spend your golden years.
To start, make a plan for how you want to spend your retirement. Do you dream of traveling the world, or purchasing your dream home, boat or RV? Developing goals for retirement can help you get an idea of how much money you’ll need to save to achieve those goals. Making a bucket list can also be helpful. You might find you can start crossing items off your list during your working years, thus reducing the financial burden you could face in retirement.
2. Save early and often.
Saving is obviously another key step when planning for retirement, but unfortunately, a lot of people don’t begin saving early enough.
When it comes to saving for retirement, don’t wait. Time and compound interest are on your side. The sooner you begin saving, the more time your money has to grow.
If you haven’t already, check to see if your employer offers a 401(k) and company match. You can also open up an IRA, making contributions to it whenever possible.
If you can, figure out ways to make passive income during your working years. Investing in real estate and a high-yield savings account or CDs are other saving vehicles you have at your disposal.
3. Take care of your health.
It may not be top of mind, but maintaining your health during your working years can help you in retirement. According to the same MedicareFAQ report, 82% of respondents say they didn’t prioritize their health during their working years. Carving out time to exercise, eating a nutritious diet and developing healthy habits can lower your risk of illness later in life.
These illnesses may require you to undergo costly treatments or move into a long-term care facility, which can be expensive.
Being proactive about your health in the now not only increases your chances of a longer life, but it can also help you save on health care costs as you age.
Plus, it will increase your quality of life in the present.
4. Consider taking on a side hustle.
If you want to generate more income for retirement, consider tapping into today’s gig economy. Picking up side jobs, starting a small business or providing services that align with your skills and talents are all great ways to generate income on top of your regular salary.
The extra income can help you cover current expenses, pay off debt or increase your retirement contributions, which will only benefit you in retirement.
During our working years, many of us look forward to life in retirement. The additional free time allows us to slow down and enjoy life, giving us time to reflect and explore ourselves and the world around us. Don’t let financial burdens limit you or fill you with feelings of regret during one of the most precious phases of life. Preparing for retirement now will allow you to fully enjoy it when the time comes.