Key Takeaways
- More than 40% of Americans say they feel uncertain about retirement.
- There are important things to keep in mind when planning retirement that can help curb anxiety.
- Choosing consistency over perfection, finding part-time work, and seeking help can make the process less stressful.
For many people, retirement presents a lot of questions: How much they will need, when they can retire, if it is even possible, and so on.
That’s a lot of stress, especially after working for decades to make it happen.
A new survey from financial services organization Thrivent found that more than 40% of Americans say they feel uncertain about retirement. Many don’t expect that they’ll achieve a traditional retirement, where you stop working at a certain age. In fact, one-third of workers surveyed said it’s unlikely they will retire at all.
“The idea of how people will retire in the current environment seems to be a key component of their anxiety,” said Jason Rogoff, a financial advisor with Thrivent. “People still look forward to retirement, but they’re increasingly wondering how to navigate the road to get there.”
It’s not surprising. Between rising costs across the board, market volatility, projections that Social Security will run out in less than a decade, and job insecurity, it can be hard to picture feeling secure enough in your later years.
“External factors are a major source of uncertainty and anxiety [surrounding retirement]. We all worry about things we can’t control, and planning for retirement is no different,” Rogoff said.
Even so, there are some important things to keep in mind when considering retirement to help curb anxiety.
Choose Consistency Over Perfection
Things don’t always go as planned, especially when it involves money. Saving consistently, even in small increments, is enough when you’re already being stretched thin by rising costs elsewhere, Rogoff said.
“I always preach consistency over perfection,” he said. “Saving for retirement is a long-term commitment and challenges are bound to happen.”
Working During Retirement Is A New Normal
Working during retirement may sound like an oxymoron, but it’s much more common. In fact, more than one-in-three non-retired workers told Thrivent that they plan to work after retiring from their primary career.
Working during retirement can supplement savings and Social Security benefits for some, but for others, it keeps them engaged. About half of those surveyed who plan to work in retirement said they are doing so to keep mentally active, stay busy, or avoid boredom.
This isn’t a bad idea: 36% anticipate retirement will feel lonely. Working brings structure and routine into our lives and requires us to get up and go somewhere every day. Without it, retirees can feel isolated and like they lack a sense of purpose or community, according to licensed clinical social worker Karen Smith.
Working even part-time can help retirees feel more financially and emotionally supported.
Get Some Expert Help
There’s a lot about retirement that workers cannot control, but help to prepare for uncertainty is available.
- Retirement planners can help clients manage their assets and plan for health care expenses.
- Investment advisors can advise you on where to invest your money based on your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
- Tax experts, including CPAs, can help you minimize your tax burden in retirement.
- Estate planning attorneys help draft legal documents and medical decisions.
“We’re guides that can help navigate accounts, investments, and tax strategies with actionable steps,” Rogoff said.
Many of these resources can cost you, though. For the most cost-effective guidance, consider visiting a banker at your bank or credit union, or reaching out to large investment firms, like Charles Schwab or TIAA. Many offer complimentary financial consultations. There are also nonprofits that provide free financial advice or legal assistance.
There are also free online tools you can use to calculate retirement expenses and income, including those available on the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.