Planning for retirement can feel daunting. With so many options, such as Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, traditional IRAs, and backdoor Roth strategies, navigating your choices can become confusing. I can help by guiding you through these options to determine the best path for your unique situation.

Many of us wonder, "How much savings is enough for retirement?" or "Will I outlive my savings?" These are critical questions, especially since pensions are becoming a thing of the past. Most of us must rely on long-term savings and investment growth to secure the retirement we desire. Social Security, after all, was only intended as a supplement.

I often speak to clients about the importance of sustainable retirement strategies. For instance, many financial advisors suggest concepts like the 4% rule, but this approach doesn’t always account for the unpredictability of the market. Instead, I prefer an alternative analogy – the apple orchard strategy.

Think of your savings as an apple orchard. Rather than cutting down your trees (your principal) over time, learn to live off the apples (your dividends). This dividend income approach allows you to preserve your nest egg while enjoying a sustainable income. While I am not an investment advisor or SEC-registered, I can coach you in becoming a self-directed investor, just as I’ve done for myself.