Small Steps and Giant Leaps Toward Retirement

July 20th marks the 50th anniversary of the moon landing. In the middle of summer vacation, Baby Boomers gathered around their TVs to watch Neil Armstrong take one small step for man and one giant leap for mankind. This milestone in human history marked many Americans’ upbringings and identities in a significant way. It was a testament to the power of human ingenuity and perseverance, and the ability of America to reach its loftiest goals. Putting a man on the moon probably seemed impossible to many when President Kennedy promised we would in 1961, but it happened. Right now, your retirement goals might seem out of reach, but with perseverance and a good plan, they can be attained.

Whether we realize it or not, we’re always taking small steps towards retirement. That’s why it’s important to have strategies in place for everything from your retirement accounts, to Social Security, to your future taxes. We didn’t put a man on the moon overnight, and your retirement won’t materialize that fast either; it’s taken you years of working and saving to get to where you are today, and to make the most of this you need a plan before you launch into this next stage of life.

Scientists had to foresee problems with the Apollo moon mission before they happened. Before the moon landing, unmanned satellites took pictures of Earth from space and were launched into Earth’s orbit to facilitate communication with the astronauts. And, thanks to satellites we have internet, TV, and GPS. Retirement planning also requires foresight: Have you considered strategies for taking Required Minimum Distributions from your retirement accounts? Or how you will maximize your Social Security benefit? What about a plan to help minimize your taxes in retirement? In addressing these future issues, you might discover new benefits or innovations to your retirement plan.

There are many fears associated with retirement, like running out of money, losing savings to a market downturn, and not being able to maintain your current lifestyle. A good retirement plan addresses these concerns and prepares you for a long retirement. You might not know how to create such a plan, but we do. We have experience with launching people into retirement and guiding them through it.

There are many moving parts when it comes to planning for retirement, and the professionals at Madrona Financial can help you create a comprehensive plan. Click here to schedule your complimentary review to take a big leap towards retirement.