Most people view retirement as the finish line — years of saving and sacrifice finally paying off. But here’s the real question: are you ready for what comes after? Let’s talk about how to shift your mindset from simply accumulating wealth to actually distributing it efficiently — without fear, uncertainty, or running out of money.
The 401(k): Not Good or Bad, Just Misunderstood
I’m not against 401(k)s. If you’re saving and investing consistently, that’s great — most people don’t. The problem is that 401(k)s are built for accumulation, not distribution. You can save for decades, but if you don’t have a plan for how to draw income safely in retirement, you risk turning your golden years into a guessing game.
The Fear-Based Retirement Trap
Many people rely on “safe withdrawal rules” — taking 4% to 8% from their 401(k) each year. But what happens when the market drops 20%? You’re suddenly pulling 28%. That kind of uncertainty fuels fear and scarcity. The truth is, most retirees are more afraid of outliving their money than they are of dying. That fear keeps them from enjoying the retirement they worked for.
The Math Doesn’t Lie
Let’s say you’ve saved $1 million. Following the 4% rule gives you $40,000 a year — and after taxes, maybe $30,000. That’s not much for a lifetime of hard work. Accumulation without a distribution plan is like filling a bucket full of holes. You’ll always worry about how much is left instead of knowing you’re secure.
What If There’s a Better Way?
What if you could guarantee income for life — no matter what the market does? By using properly structured life insurance or converting part of your savings into guaranteed lifetime income, you can remove the fear of running out of money. These strategies create non-correlated assets, meaning they don’t fluctuate with the market and give you a second pool of money to draw from when times get tough.
Living with Certainty, Not Scarcity
Imagine being stranded on an island with a 50-gallon drum of water. If you don’t know when more will come, you’ll ration every sip. That’s how most people treat their retirement accounts. But if you knew fresh water would arrive every month, you’d live freely. That’s the difference between uncertain market withdrawals and guaranteed income. One creates fear. The other creates freedom.
Plan with Intention
Whether you’re 10 days or 10 years from retirement, the best time to plan your distribution strategy is now. Let’s maximize what you’ve worked for, add certainty to your income, and give your future the respect it deserves.
👉 Schedule a conversation with Wade today to rethink your retirement with confidence and clarity.