Episode 85: How Do I Achieve A Balanced Life in Retirement?
Have your question answered on the Money Wisdom Question Series!
How Do I Achieve a Balanced Life in Retirement?
Here at Johnson Brunetti, we work primarily with people that are retired or people that are leading up to retirement. So, it’s suffice to say we know a lot of people that have retired. Some of those folks have had great, fruitful, rewarding experiences and lives in retirement, and some of those folks maybe not so much. So, how do we make sure that we achieve a balanced life in retirement?
Spending Habits
Number one is spending habits. Make sure that you are confident that you can spend in the way that achieves your lifestyle. You don’t want to enter retirement and spend so much in the first two or three years that you regroup and say, “Well, gee, wow I need to now change things, or I can’t spend that same way.”
The goal is to make sure to be able to live that lifestyle for a 20, 25, 30-year period of time and also be able to give yourself raises throughout retirement to keep up with inflation.
Lifestyle
Number two is lifestyle. We want a balance in our lifestyle. The folks that I meet with and speak with, I ask, “Hey, how’s retirement going for you?” The folks that are having a great time in retirement are people that have hobbies, outlets, and things that they want to do. They spend time with family, they travel, and maybe there are other things that they’re getting involved with that they didn’t have enough time to really delve into when they were working. Whether it’s starting a business, picking up an instrument, volunteering, or doing things to take up that free time that are fulfilling to them.
The folks that I speak with that are not having such a great time in retirement are people that don’t have those outlets.
A Balanced Portfolio
Finally, we want balance when it comes to our portfolio. We don’t want to be so overexposed to a ton of risk. You want to make sure that your ultimate goal is achieving a reasonable rate of return. Yes, grow what you have reasonably, but at the same time, minimize risk and minimize downside.
Many people start out saving for retirement when they’re younger or middle-aged, and they set a certain allocation and they keep plowing money into it. And that’s great, that’s what we want to see. However, then you find yourself later on, and you are retired and it’s a good time to revisit that. You don’t want to be 65 to 70 years old, retired and living off of your assets and allocating them or investing them in the same way that you did when you were 40 or 35 years old, when you were more comfortable with risk.
Information presented here is considered current as of the created date. Over time, some information presented may become stale. We recommend you consult with your Financial Professional before making any changes based on information contained here.
Johnson Brunetti is a marketing name for the businesses of JB Capital and JN Financial.
Investment Advisory Services offered through JB Capital, LLC. Insurance Products offered through JN Financial, LLC.
The guarantees provided by any type of insurance contract are based on the claims-paying ability of the insurance company.
Related Resources
-
Should I Stay in My Home or Rent in Retirement?
Most retirees plan to remain homeowners, but it’s worth considering if that’s the right move for you. Whether you should stay in your home or rent in retirement depends on your financial situation… -
Podcast Episode 473: Why 77% of Americans Aren’t Saving Enough for Retirement
Prefer to watch? Click here to watch and listen on YouTube. Roughly 77% of Americans surveyed say debt is preventing them from saving adequately for retirement. This is a strong reminder that s… -
What Tax Moves Should I Consider Before the End of the Year?
According to a recent study, 46% of Americans say tax season is the most stressful financial time of the year. The good news is that there are several proactive steps you can take before year-end … -
What’s the Best Way to Leave an Inheritance?
Leaving an inheritance is about more than transferring wealth. With thoughtful planning, you can help maximize the value of what you leave behind and simplify the process for your loved ones. I… -
What Are the Best Types of Accounts for Investing?
Different investment accounts offer different advantages. From tax benefits and contribution limits to withdrawal rules, each account serves a unique purpose. Understanding how these accounts work… -
I’m Turning 65, Why Do I Need to Stop My HSA Contributions?
If you’re nearing your mid-60s and actively contribute to a health savings account (HSA), you’ve likely used it to cover qualified medical costs. However, as you get closer to enrolling in Medicar… -
How Can I Enjoy My Retirement Savings Without Fear of Overspending?
The fear of running out of money keeps many retirees from truly enjoying their hard-earned savings without worry. After decades of nurturing your nest egg, the thought of seeing your progress slip… -
Do I Need Life Insurance in Retirement?
Around 52% of Americans own some type of life insurance policy. But once you retire, some of your biggest financial obligations may be behind you. When you reach this point, you may wonder whether… -
How Will Social Security Be Funded in the Future?
Without congressional action, current projections indicate Social Security will pay only 78% of benefits starting in late 2032. This funding gap highlights our growing disparity between workers pa… -
Podcast Episode 467: 7 Milestone Ages for Retirement Planning
Prefer to watch? Click here to watch and listen on YouTube. Retirement planning comes with a surprising number of age-based rules and opportunities. Knowing what changes at each stage can help…
-
Richard S.Richard S. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for his statement.
“We have been extremely happy with our advisor and the services offered. We previously had accounts with another advisor. We had no issues, but chose to consolidate everything with Johnson Brunetti. We made a great decision with that.”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
John & Laura U.John & Laura U. are clients of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for their statement.
-
Joe D.Joe D. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for his statement.
“Your model is working well, continue to keep your focus on your clients. The podcasts are an effective way of communicating information and real life stories. Your business is supporting your clients’ many different real life stories.”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
Jackie L.Jackie L. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for her statement.
“I love how everyone in the company makes us feel. Like we are one big happy family. I wouldn’t change anything!”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
Donald & Donna K.Donald & Donna K. are clients of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for their statement.
“It’s been one of the best things my wife and I have ever done. The clarity, support, and professionalism have made a real difference for us.”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
Annette L.Annette L. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for her statement.
