As some of our clients know, I’ll be retiring after 30 years of working in the financial planning industry: 15 years for Gagen & Co. and for the last 15 years with Inspired Financial. The time as flown by. I started out as a secretary (old fashioned job description) that evolved into Director of Operations. Titles and job descriptions were never important to me. Our clients have always been #1 in my heart and soul and I always strived to enjoy every single day keeping them happy.
I have also been very fortunate to plan for my retirement because I’ve taken and learned from the advice of the great planners at Inspired Financial. We all know it takes a lot of money to retire and we don’t want to “outlive” our money.
Here are some important reminders:
- Come in for a retirement income analysis.
- Discuss Social Security and the pros/cons of waiting to age 70 when the benefits increase by 8% each year.
- Have long term care insurance.
- Have your estate plan in place.
When I looked at different retirement sites to provide information about retirement they gave practical advice. We know Inspired Financial gives expert advice. I think everyone would rather know about the “fun” side of retirement that I’m looking forward to:
- Exercising in the a.m., not “after” work. I told my Zumba buddies I’ll be dancing closer to home and I’m weaning off Huntington Beach Senior Center. Look how much gas I’m going to save.
- I’ll re-discover my kitchen and cook wholesome meals – lucky Fred.
- I’ll put on my garden hat and get pointers from Evelyn’s mother who is a “Master Gardener”.
- Reading has always been my passion and I can participate at book clubs at lunch time instead of “happy hour.”
- Traveling to places that are on my bucket list such as Buenos Aires to watch the Argentine tango and Kentucky Derby to watch the famous horse race.
- Volunteering, but I need to be very selective because we know volunteering can be a full-time job and remember I’m retiring.
- Having fun with my grandchildren and being more flexible with my time.
- Not having deadlines and sleeping a little later in the morning – less stress is good for the heart.
- Not driving in rush hour!!!
- Join the Audubon Society and become a bird watcher.
I hope I’m prepared financially and socially for this new stage in my life. Please Save-the-Date for my retirement party on October 17th. Watch for your invitation soon!!