Imagine waking up one morning and looking in the mirror. Instead of seeing your face as you know it today, you see a wrinkled, much-older version of yourself. It’s you, alright…but it’s you in 25, 35, maybe 40 years down the road. What would that 75 year-old “you” think of the current you? What stories could he or she tell you about the next 25-40 years of your life, or, of the life he/she is leading in the future?
Is he happy? Are there flying cars yet? How are the kids? Do you have grandkids? Where is he or she living? Is he/she OK financially?
It’s fun to envision what some of those questions and answers might be. But, it’s also important to note some of the choices you’re making right now will affect how your future self is able to answer those questions, especially when it comes to the financial ones.
Often when we talk to participants in our 401(k) employee group meetings, we talk about this very concept. Is your “future-self” going to be able to look back and thank you for the behavior/ financial decisions you are making now? Are you putting away enough money now to give you a chance at the retirement you are dreaming of?
If you answered that last question with an “I don’t know”, you’re not alone. Many, many folks don’t know where to start to find the answer.
But, maybe it’s time to take action.
Legendary performer Michael Jackson once sang:
I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself, and then make a change
No matter your current age, income, family situation, or other outside factors; it’s very likely you can make changes now that will lead to positive strides in reaching those future goals. It would be nice to be able to look at your future self in the mirror and say, “This is what I’m doing now to make things better for you.” The first step is taking action: whether it’s upping your 401k contribution, starting an IRA, or meeting with us about putting together a comprehensive financial plan.
We challenge you to take a good look at your situation, and make a change.
There’s a man or woman in the mirror that’s counting on you.
