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Rethinking Retirement: Why True Wealth Is More Than Money

You’ve mapped out your dream retirement. Maybe it’s a cozy beach town, golf twice a week, time with family, or finally starting that side project.

But here’s the truth most planning overlooks: even with a solid financial plan, your ideal retirement could still fall flat.

That’s because real wealth in retirement doesn’t just live in your portfolio. It lives in your health, your relationships, and your sense of purpose.

A comfortable retirement doesn’t come with a fixed price tag.

Expenses can change over time, and some of the most important ones are easy to overlook.

That’s one reason about 45% of retirees could run out of money in retirement.¹

The good news? That outcome isn’t inevitable. The key is recognizing which costs get overlooked and building flexibility into your plan.

Let’s explore five common blind spots and what you can do to prepare.
 

1. Overspending Day to Day

Small spending shifts can snowball quickly in retirement.

As spring arrives and the weather warms up, many people turn their attention to cleaning out closets and organizing their homes. According to a recent survey, about 80% of Americans have spring cleaning on their radar this year.¹ While most focus on the physical space, spring is also a great time to get your financial house in order.

Refreshing your financial habits can reduce stress, provide structure, and uncover new opportunities to save money and time. It's a smart way to prepare for the busy summer months and beyond.

Tax season might not spark joy, but a refund sure can.

In 2025, the IRS estimates the average federal income tax refund will top $3,170.¹ That means a lot of folks are suddenly asking the same question: What should I do with it?

Splurge? Save? Invest?

The good news: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there are a few options that tend to deliver more peace of mind and long-term upside.

Here are five smart ways to use your tax refund in 2025, plus practical tips to help you make your money work harder (and smarter).