The #1 Way to Ruin Your Retirement (Most People Do This)

Jul 29, 2025

Discover how a children’s poem can reshape your retirement perspective. The discussion reveals the mistake of prioritizing wealth over well-being. It highlights the difficulty of breaking free from the accumulation mindset, even with financial independence. Instead of fearing poverty, the real risk is not recognizing when you have enough. Learn how a tailored financial plan can transform your focus from merely growing wealth to truly enjoying life.

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ANECDOTE

The "Smart" Poem Anecdote

Shel Silverstein's poem "Smart" illustrates the mistake of confusing quantity with true value. - The boy trades one dollar for multiple coins of lesser total worth, thinking he is gaining value.

INSIGHT

Intrinsic Value vs. More

Value lies in intrinsic worth, not just in having more items or money. - Many approach retirement focused on increasing wealth, overlooking the cost to time, health, and relationships.

INSIGHT

True Cost of Overworking

Continuing to work past financial independence can lead to trading priceless things like time and health for extra money. - These priceless assets become more valuable as we age, unlike the additional money earned.

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Can a children’s poem change how you think about retirement? In this episode, we unpack the hidden wisdom in Shel Silverstein’s “Smart” and how it reflects a common retirement planning mistake: trading time and well-being for wealth you may no longer need.

We explore why it’s hard to step away from accumulation mode—even after reaching financial independence—and how this mindset can cost you more than it earns. The real risk isn’t running out of money. It’s not recognizing when you have enough.

Learn how a clear, personalized financial plan can help you shift focus from growing wealth to living well. Discover how to align your money with what matters most.

Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

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