Many people don't regret being retired. They regret how they got there.
"I wish I had saved earlier."
"I didn't think long-term care would matter."
"I should've waited to claim Social Security."
Hindsight hits hard when it's tied to your potential freedom and options.
The good news? There may still be opportunities to make meaningful changes that could benefit your future.
The Power of Starting Early
Save on Schedule
Retirement doesn't feel urgent… until it's right in front of you.
One of the biggest regrets? Not saving soon enough. If you save $1,000 a month starting at age 40, with a 7% return, you could potentially build a nest egg worth around $758,000 by 65. But if you wait until 50? You'd need to save approximately $2,520 a month to reach a similar goal.
Start smaller. Start now. Automate it. Every dollar today may help create more flexibility tomorrow.
Time Your Benefits Strategically
Many folks claim Social Security the second they're eligible—usually out of fear or habit. But that early move locks in a lower monthly check for life.
Waiting until age 70 can raise your monthly benefits by about 32%. That's the difference between making ends meet and having extra breathing room.
Delaying won't be right for everyone. But if your situation allows, waiting may increase your benefits over time. Consider working with a financial professional to evaluate your specific circumstances and ensure your claiming strategy aligns with your broader retirement goals.
Managing Debt Before Retirement
Put Debt on a Deadline
Carrying debt into retirement may limit your choices. It could keep money tied up in interest instead of letting you use it where it counts.
If you've still got a mortgage, credit cards, or car loans, now may be a good time to create a payoff plan. Pick a target date. Set up automatic extra payments. Each balance you pay off may help add flexibility down the road.
A retirement with fewer financial obligations often provides more peace of mind.
Planning for Long-Term Care Needs
Decide Long-Term Care on Purpose
Most people assume Medicare covers nursing homes. It doesn't.
And most haven't named someone to make medical decisions for them. That means when something unexpected happens, families can be left scrambling instead of confidently following a plan.
Developing a long-term care strategy may help protect both your financial resources and preserve more choices for you and your family.
Keep Options Open With Work
Extend Optionality
Not everyone wants to work longer—but some retirees wish they had. Working just a few more years or shifting into part-time work can stretch savings, delay withdrawals, and reduce financial pressure.
Of course, this approach isn't for everyone—review your personal situation, goals, and health considerations to determine what makes sense for you.
It's not about never retiring. It's about having options when life throws a curveball.
Your Career Path Matters, Too
Play Offense with Your Career
Even well-prepared retirees say they missed things. They stayed too long in stalled roles, didn't grow their network, or let their skills get rusty. Staying proactive now—by upskilling, networking, or exploring new roles—can protect you from being caught off guard later.
A great defense against an unexpected career shift? Stay engaged and keep moving forward.
Life's Not Just About the Numbers
Enjoy the Good Stuff
Some regrets don't show up on a balance sheet. They show up in stories that never happened. Trips that never got booked. Experiences that were saved "for later"… and never taken. Health changes. Priorities shift. That's why building a plan that lets you enjoy life now—without sacrificing the future—can be so powerful.
Money is a tool. Use it to create memories, not just security.
Consider Professional Guidance
Call the Right Plays Together
Working with a financial advisor may help identify and address considerations before they become more challenging to manage.
Bringing It Together
What decision would future-you thank present-you for? Retirement planning isn't about perfection. It's about progress.
Automate your savings. Talk about long-term care. Rethink your timeline for claiming benefits. Pick one move to start with—then build from there.
A few intentional plays today can mean more freedom, fewer regrets, and a retirement that truly fits your values.
Ready to talk through your retirement planning questions? I'm here to help you explore your options and create a strategy that fits your unique situation.
*Assumes consistent monthly contributions and a 7% average annual return, compounded annually. This is a hypothetical example for illustrative purposes only. Past performance does not guarantee future results.