RetirementI don't think I'll ever be able to stop working

submitted by NutterButterFlutter from self.LGB

I put money into my 401K with every job I have that allows it. I have a meager Roth IRA too, which should probably be awakened. Aside from my bills, all extra money goes into savings. My total amount saved across all jobs in my lifetime will allow me to survive for roughly 3 years without assistance if I stay in the area I am (California/USA).

I'm not opposed to moving, but I'd like to stay in a somewhat LGB-friendly state so I don't have to fight against that particular part of culture wars. And I would like to be in a cool area (temperature-wise) so I don't sweat my balls off walking from room to room.

But aside from that, what is ACTUALLY the plan for retiring? I feel like it's just "work until you die, and leave that money to dependents because you'll never be able to relax and use it". Surely there is something else?

all 3 comments
sorted by:
top
newinsightfulfun

[–]RippoffOfLove 6 insightful - 1 fun6 insightful - 0 fun7 insightful - 1 fun -  (1 child)

I only started my career a few years ago and I'm making decent money. Just bought a house and that's going to eat up a good portion of my income. But in my industry, it's normal to make more with experience so that's how I've justified it. If I continue on my current trajectory, I'll be alright. But many Americans won't be as fortunate, I think. Things look pretty bleak.

I would recommend moving though. I recently dated someone who moved here (northern Midwest) from a large city closer to the east coast and she was amazed at how relatively cheap rent was here.

[–]NutterButterFlutter[S] 2 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 0 fun3 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

I have very much been thinking about moving. I haven't been to many places in the US, but the places Ive visited so far have unfortunately been ruled out because of climate. The east coast, for example, is a no-go for me. I cant handle the humidity, it makes me ill. Ive heard its even worse for the gulf coast, so thats out's too.

Midwest is a consideration, but I havent been to any of those states or cities. No idea what I'd be walking into there.

My concern with moving before having a plan or an idea for retirement is I may bite myself in the ass with it. I made good money where I'm at but the cost of living is high. I don't have a specialty career, so while I can easily move anywhere in the country and find comparable work, my pay would be adjusted according to the new COL in the area.

Feels like a catch 22.

[–]xandit 2 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 0 fun3 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

gonna move out of my expensive blue state. Every state I think has a blue area so it might be gay friendly without being too woke. But I love the northeast, even though I might be temporarily going to Florida and the heat.