Retirement Life
4 December 2024

The shift from saving to spending in retirement

For much of our lives, we focus on building wealth - saving diligently, growing our nest eggs, and preparing for the future. But when that future arrives (i.e. when you retire) a new challenge emerges; the shift from saving to spending.

 

This might sound easy on paper – you finally get to enjoy the fruits of your labour! In reality, it requires a dramatic psychological and behavioural about-face, as well as the discipline and confidence to manage your money so it lasts as long as you do.

 

Why is it so challenging to spend in retirement?

1. Fear of running out

It’s common for retirees to worry about depleting their savings too quickly. With unknowns like inflation, market volatility, and unexpected expenses, spending can feel like a gamble.

 

2. A habit of saving

For many, saving isn’t just a financial habit—it’s deeply ingrained behaviour. Letting go of this mindset can be difficult and emotionally taxing.

 

3. Navigating complex financial decisions

Deciding how much to withdraw, when to adjust, and how to protect your funds over a 20+ year timeframe can become overwhelming, especially as cognitive abilities change over time.

 

Equip yourself with the right tools

The transition from saving to spending in retirement is big one and it requires careful planning to ensure financial peace of mind. As the saying goes: “We never plan to fail; we just fail to plan.”

 

Calculate what you could draw in retirement.

To help you navigate this life milestone, financial expert Liz Koh has developed the Buckets of Money Retirement Planning Guide. This comprehensive resource provides practical advice to guide you through the uncertainties of retirement, from managing expenses to ensuring your savings last as long as you do. And it’s free!

 

The guide equips you with the knowledge and tools to create a solid financial plan for your retirement years, empowering you to spend confidently and enjoy life to the fullest.

 

Click here to access the guide and start building the foundation for your best retirement!

 

Embracing a new mindset: Confidence to spend

To truly enjoy retirement, it’s essential to move past the fear and embrace sustainable spending. This doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind but rather using your savings effectively to provide a steady income.

 

Here’s how Lifetime Retirement Income can help:

 

Lifetime Retirement Income: The key to stress-free spending.

1. Regular payments

Lifetime Retirement Income provides a predictable income stream, as well as expert investment and longevity management of your capital, so you can confidently spend without worrying about depleting your savings too soon.

 

2. Inflation-resilient strategies

With investments designed to combat inflation, Lifetime ensures your retirement income retains its value over the years.

 

3. Protection for couples

Lifetime’s joint income solutions mean your partner remains financially secure, even if you pass away, providing peace of mind for both of you.

 

4. Simplicity in financial planning

With Lifetime’s approach, you don’t need to juggle complicated withdrawal strategies or investment decisions—everything is managed for you, leaving you free to focus on enjoying retirement.

 

Saver to spender: A smooth transition

Retirement should be a time of freedom and enjoyment, not anxiety about whether your money will last. With a product like Lifetime Retirement Income, specifically designed to address the challenges of life’s third act, you can confidently transition from saving to spending knowing your financial future is secure.

 

Don’t let fear hold you back—explore how Lifetime Retirement Income can help you make the most of your golden years.

 

Photo of Chelsea Devlin
Written by:

Chelsea Devlin

Chelsea is a key member of the senior leadership team and serves as the Director of Lifetime Home. She is a passionate advocate for creating long-term, sustainable retirement income solutions designed to help individuals bridge the retirement income gap. Chelsea frequently hosts educational webinars and workshops focused on retirement income planning, emphasising the critical importance of having a long-term strategy for financial security in retirement.

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