Are you wondering why it feels like everyone else is retiring early — and you're not? In this episode of Early Retirement Roadmap, we uncover the real reasons people delay early retirement, even when they have enough saved. Learn how to avoid the "one more year syndrome," stop chasing unrealistic retirement numbers, and discover 5 proven strategies to retire sooner than you think.

If you want to know how much you really need to retire, how to build financial confidence, and how to create a realistic retirement plan, this episode is for you.

We cover the average 401(k) balance by age, how much guaranteed income like Social Security can help, why stress-testing your retirement plan matters, and how redefining retirement could be your key to freedom.

🔔 If you found this episode helpful, please follow or subscribe & leave a review, or support me with a cup of coffee here. 

Episodes to listen to mentioned in this episode: 

🎙️Episode 3, How Much Do You REALLY Need to Retire

🎙️Episode 6, The One Retirement Mistake that Could RUIN YOU

💼My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool. If you're serious about planning for early retirement, you've got to check out Boldin.  It's a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future -- whether you're a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.  I personally use it and highly recommend!  Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap

Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's a simple way to support this podcast and the content I create. Thank you!

✅ FREE Early Retirement Planning Checklist

Whether you're just getting started or refining your plan, this free guide will help you take the next step! Download my free 12-step early retirement planning checklist—a practical, easy-to-follow guide that walks you through everything from calculating your FIRE number to building a tax-efficient withdrawal strategy.

👉 Get your free checklist here: https://payhip.com/b/IBj3q

I created this to help others like you pursue financial independence and retire on your own terms and as a thank you to my viewers. Whether you are years away or almost ready, this checklist will help you retire smarter and sooner and is the perfect companion to everything I share on this podcast.

 🎥 When you’re not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube channel for more insights and inspiration.   

🌐  Visit mikeupland.com – Connect with me & explore retirement resources including all my videos and blog articles.