I think back to my grandmother, Elsie. She spent her whole life raising a family, working tirelessly, and always putting others first. When she finally retired, she felt… lost. Like a ship without a sail. She’s not alone. So many people I know, wonderful, hardworking people, find that retirement isn't the endless vacation they imagined. It can be a time of uncertainty, of searching for meaning, and even of worry.
That's why I put together this list. It’s not about getting rich or becoming an expert. It's about feeling secure, finding joy, and building a retirement that truly fulfills you. These books offer practical advice, inspiring stories, and a gentle reminder that it’s never too late to create a life you love – a retirement that's not just about having time, but about making it meaningful. Let's explore these books together and build a retirement that shines.
Purposeful Retirement
As I reflect on this inspiring guide, I am reminded of the countless individuals I've met who have struggled to find purpose in their post-work lives. Many have felt lost, unfulfilled, and uncertain about what's next. But what if you could create a life that exceeded your wildest dreams? This book offers a powerful framework for discovering your true passions, reimagining your life, and embracing a new chapter of purposeful retirement. Through his extensive experience as a renowned author, speaker, and businessman, Hyrum W. Smith shares a tested and actionable guide that empowers you to take control of your transition. With his expert guidance, you'll learn how to simplify your life, break free from the constraints of your old world, and enter a realm of possibility and fulfillment. As you navigate this transformative journey, you'll discover how to create a personal and professional life that aligns with your values, skills, and interests. You'll learn how to pursue your long-held dreams, build meaningful relationships, and cultivate a sense of purpose that will radiate outward into every area of your life. This book is a gift to anyone seeking to redefine their retirement, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to embark on a path of purposeful living.
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Get What's Yours - Revised & Updated: The Secrets to Maxing Out Your Social Security (The Get What's Yours Series)
Many people find themselves struggling with the complex and ever-changing social security system. I recently had a conversation with someone who had made a wrong decision about their social security benefits, resulting in a loss of tens of thousands of dollars in lost income every year. They told me that they had tried to understand the system on their own, but it was like trying to navigate a maze with no clear exit. That's where the book comes in - it provides a comprehensive and authoritative guide to maximizing social security benefits. The authors, well-known financial commentators, explain the system in a way that is easy to understand, using engaging tactics and strategies that are not found elsewhere. The book covers a wide range of scenarios, including married retired couples, divorced retirees, widows, and widowers, as well as those who are disabled or eligible for benefits while still working. One of the most important changes to social security that took effect in 2016 is the new rule that makes it more beneficial to wait until age 70 to claim benefits. The book explains how this change affects individuals and families, and provides guidance on how to take advantage of the new rules. It also addresses the tax consequences of social security decisions and the financial implications for other investments. The book is an invaluable tool for anyone aged 54 to 69, and for their families and friends who are affected by their decisions. With its comprehensive and easy-to-understand approach, it's no wonder that this book has become a go-to resource for those looking to make the most of their social security benefits.
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Don't Retire, Rewire! by Jeri Sedlar and Rick Miners (24-Jul-2008) Paperback
This book is about a woman who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and received an experimental treatment that included a radical reconfiguration of her body. As she undergoes this life-altering process, she comes to terms with her own identity, relationships, and mortality. The author shares her personal journey of resilience, transformation, and acceptance, highlighting the importance of human connection, community, and living in the present moment. The author reflects on the ways in which our physical bodies shape our experiences and perceptions, and how this can also be a catalyst for personal growth and renewal. The story is both deeply personal and universally relatable, offering a powerful exploration of what it means to live fully and authentically in the face of adversity.
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Passive Income, Aggressive Retirement: The Secret to Freedom, Flexibility, and Financial Independence (& how to get started!)
I recently had the pleasure of diving into a life-changing book that has left me with a renewed sense of hope and determination. The author, a renowned finance expert, shares an inspiring story of how they turned their financial life around and achieved financial independence at a young age. At 27, they quit their job and retired, living off a comfortable $10,000+ per month in passive income streams. This is a staggering figure, but what's even more impressive is that anyone under the age of 40 can aim to accumulate a similar amount of money, which is currently estimated to be two million dollars. This amount often requires working long hours and pinching pennies for most of one's life. The author's goal is to teach readers everything they need to know to become financially free earlier than they ever thought possible. With this in mind, the book delves into the world of passive income, which is earned with little to no ongoing work. The author shares 28 tried and true passive income stream models, helping readers to achieve financial independence without sacrificing their quality of life. One of the most impressive aspects of this book is the array of expert interviews, featuring well-known figures such as Hal Elrod, Bobby Hoyt, David Osborn, Honorée Corder, and more. These experts share their strategies and experiences, providing a wealth of knowledge that is both refreshing and relatable. Throughout the book, the author emphasizes the importance of living life on one's own terms, eliminating financial stress and fears, and finding the flexibility to work when, where, and if one wants. This audiobook is a must-read for anyone feeling trapped in a 9-5 job or struggling to make ends meet. The author's message is clear: with the right strategies and mindset, anyone can achieve financial freedom and live a life they love. By the end of the book, readers will know exactly what it takes and how to get started on their own path to financial independence.
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Retirement Fail: The 9 Reasons People Flunk Post-Work Life and How to Ace Your Own
For many of us, retirement is a long-awaited dream that we've carefully planned and saved for. We've worked hard and made smart financial decisions to ensure that we'll have a comfortable and secure future. But the truth is, our decisions - both big and small - can either make or break our nest egg. I recall a conversation I had with a friend who had saved meticulously for years, only to find herself in a difficult financial situation due to a series of emotional decisions. This experience made me realize the importance of being aware of the potential pitfalls that can lead to financial woes. A new book, "Retirement Fail: The 9 Reasons People Flunk Post-Work Life" by Greg Sullivan, delves into the nine common hazards that can catch even the most well-prepared retirees off guard. Rather than focusing solely on portfolio performance, Sullivan sheds light on the emotional decisions that can have a significant impact on our financial future. Through personal stories and insights from his 35-year career in wealth management, Sullivan reveals how these decisions can either hinder or help our chances of achieving a comfortable retirement. The book encourages readers to think through their decisions, set a course aligned with their values, and make smart choices that prioritize their financial independence. By doing so, we can avoid common mistakes and create a valuable framework for charting our own path.
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