why-how-much-is-enough-is-the-wrong-retirement-question

Retirement planning is often framed around one question: “How much is enough?” But the better question might be: “What kind of life are you building and does your investment strategy support it?” 

A surprising truth about retirement: many people do not slow down. They simply shift gears. Yet too often, financial plans do not evolve with them, leaving investors either underprepared or overly cautious during some of the most meaningful years of their lives. 

One man I advised had a long career in education before relocating to Modiin, Israel. Rather than “retiring” in the traditional sense, he redirected his energy. He spends his time preserving Jewish history by helping archaeologists recover ancient artifacts and organizing records of World War II veterans. His retirement looks nothing like slowing down. It is a continuation of a life driven by values, contribution, and family. 

Investment Strategies Should Reflect New Purpose 

The key to supporting an active retirement is a steady financial plan that mirrors the life you want to live. Quarterly income distributions allow him to invest in experiences, like family celebrations and meaningful travel, without disrupting his core savings. He is not chasing markets. He is using his wealth intentionally. 

Stability Creates True Freedom 

Investing during retirement should not feel like a gamble. It should feel like a system. Reasonable , diversified strategies can offer predictable income without forcing retirees to react to every market headline. This foundation allows people to focus their time and energy on what matters most. 

Your Portfolio Should Grow with You 

A successful retirement is not just measured by financial balance sheets. It is measured by how well your money supports your evolving goals. When you invest with clarity and align your financial life with your purpose, retirement becomes less about preservation and more about possibility. 

If you want to build a financial strategy that matches the life you are creating, sign up for a free introductory call at www.profile-financial.com/call. Together, we can determine if and how we can help you structure your investments to support your next chapter with confidence. 

Douglas Goldstein, CFP® is the director of Profile Investment Services, Ltd. www.Profile-Financial.com. He is a licensed financial professional both in the U.S. and Israel. Call (02) 624-2788 for a consultation on how to set up your American assets to meet your financial goals. Securities offered through Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB, FSI. The opinions expressed are those of the author and not those of Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. or its affiliates. Neither PRG nor its affiliates provide tax or legal advice.

Published February 4, 2026.

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