When would you like to retire?” It’s a question I ask clients a lot.

And more often than you might think, the answer comes back: “Tomorrow.” 

 

Usually with a smile… but often there’s more truth in it than people realise. 

 

One of the most interesting things I’ve learnt over the years is that for many people, retirement isn’t actually a financial problem — it’s a psychological one. 

 

Having worked with many of my clients for 20+ years, I often find they’ve done everything right. They’ve saved consistently, built strong pension positions, made sensible decisions and are more than capable of retiring. 

 

But when the time comes… they struggle to make the leap. After a lifetime of saving, planning and being disciplined with money, switching to becoming your own employer — effectively paying yourself from your pension — can feel uncomfortable. 

 

People tell themselves: 

“What if I need it later?” 

“What if I run out?” 

“Maybe one more year…” 

 

Yet once we run the reports and look at the numbers, in the majority of cases the conversation changes. 

 

My response is often: 

“Well… do it.” 

 

The plan supports it. And within a few months, they’re off living the retirement they’ve spent decades building towards. 

Interestingly, part of my role now is often encouraging clients to spend. 

 

Take the holiday. 

Do the renovation. 

Future-proof the house for later life. 

Enjoy the experiences. 

 

Because if you don’t use the money you worked so hard to build, there’s a fair chance your children will… or the taxman will. 

That said, retirement isn’t simply about financial planning. 

 

Work gives many of us purpose, routine, stimulation and social connection. 

I know several retirees who’ve chosen to return to work — not because they need the income, but because they missed having something meaningful to do.