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Few financial planning areas carry as much weight as retirement planning. Setting yourself up for a comfortable retirement is the culmination of years of hard work, discipline, and smart financial decisions. However, a rather alarming statistic has recently come to my attention: Forty-three percent of workers guess how much they need to retire rather than basing it on current expenses or using a retirement calculator.

At Smedley Financial, where we specialize in retirement planning, this statistic is not just a number; it’s a concern that warrants a closer look.

Retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, free from the worries of financial instability. Relying on guesswork to determine how much one needs to retire can lead to unexpected and unpleasant surprises. It’s akin to setting sail without a compass – you might drift aimlessly or, worse, find yourself in treacherous waters.

Why do so many workers opt for guesswork over a more calculated approach? One possibility is the need for more financial literacy. Understanding how to calculate your retirement needs can be daunting, and many people simply don’t know where to start. That’s where a trusted financial advisor can provide invaluable guidance.

Another reason could be procrastination. People often underestimate how much they’ll need in retirement, thinking they can always save more later. However, time flies, and the sooner you start planning, the better prepared you’ll be.

We firmly believe in the power of precision when it comes to retirement planning. By assessing your current expenses, factoring in inflation, considering your desired lifestyle in retirement, and accounting for potential healthcare costs, we can develop a tailored retirement plan that puts you on the path to financial security.

Guessing your way through retirement planning is akin to steering a ship in a storm without navigation. To ensure a smooth voyage, it’s essential to consult a financial expert and take a proactive approach to securing your financial future. We provide the expertise and guidance you need to help you retire confidently. Please don’t leave your retirement to chance; let’s chart a course together to help you set sail on a comfortable retirement.

Click here for a deep dive into this article on our Power Up Wealth podcast.

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