Recent findings from Nationwide’s Advisory Authority survey highlight a troubling reality: many Americans approaching retirement are losing confidence. Inflation, market volatility, rising interest rates, and longer lifespans have all shifted expectations.
But there’s good news: retirement is still achievable—with clear goals, adaptable planning, and ongoing guidance.
Today’s Retirees Are Redefining the Rules
- 64% of pre-retirees no longer expect to retire at age 65.
- 52% say the idea of a single “magic number” for retirement savings doesn’t work anymore.
- 35% are skeptical of the old 4% withdrawal rule.
These shifts reflect an important truth: retirement planning must be flexible and personal. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
Phased Retirement Is Becoming the New Normal
- 42% of financial advisors report more clients choosing phased retirement—gradually shifting from full-time work.
- 35% of pre-retirees expect to continue working in some form, either by choice or necessity.
Phased retirement can ease financial pressure, reduce early portfolio withdrawals, and provide structure during the transition. But it requires coordination across Social Security, tax planning, and portfolio withdrawals.
Planning for Longer Lives, Not Just Longer Retirements
With more Americans expected to live into their 90s and beyond, retirement plans need to last 30–40 years. Yet only 48% of individuals factor longevity into their planning.
A successful retirement strategy must account for longer time horizons, healthcare costs, and the possibility of unexpected expenses over time.
Economic Stress Is Real—But It’s Manageable
- Nearly half of pre-retirees say inflation has forced them to rethink retirement.
- 61% of all investors have adjusted expectations due to market uncertainty.
This makes regular updates and scenario testing more important than ever—especially around spending, taxes, and cash flow.
What Makes Retirement Achievable Today?
Despite all the uncertainty, the formula for success hasn’t changed:
- Set realistic, personalized goals—not just broad benchmarks.
- Build a spending plan that adjusts over time, especially in early retirement.
- Plan for a long life, not just the first 10–15 years.
- Revisit your plan regularly as markets, expenses, and health change.
The Bottom Line
Retirement may feel more complex today—but it’s still absolutely possible. With comprehensive, flexible planning and ongoing support, you can face uncertainty with clarity and confidence. The key is not trying to predict the future—it’s being prepared for it.
