Why Retirement Isn’t Just About Money: It’s About You
- Laura Warta, CFP®, ChFC®
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
Redefining Retirement
Retirement is often described as the “golden years” - a time to relax, travel, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. But behind the sunny brochures and smiling stock photos, many women are quietly asking a very real and personal question:
“Will I be okay?”
If that question has crossed your mind, you’re not alone. After a lifetime of working hard, raising families, caring for others, and juggling responsibilities, it can feel disorienting to suddenly shift the focus inward. What happens when your to-do list no longer defines your day? When does the structure of a paycheck or career disappear?
The Truth No One Tells You About Retirement
Here’s what I've seen after working with countless women navigating this transition: retirement is far more than a financial milestone. Yes, your savings, investments, and income streams matter – of course they do. But even more important is how prepared you are emotionally and mentally to step into this new phase of life.
Retirement is a major life shift. It brings freedom, yes, but it can also bring uncertainty, identity shifts, and even grief. The sense of purpose and structure you have during your working years doesn't vanish – it just needs to be redefined.
Women Face a Different Retirement Landscape
Women often face unique challenges in retirement. Many have taken time out of the workforce to care for children or aging parents. Some are navigating retirement solo – whether due to divorce, widowhood, or by choice. Others find themselves managing the finances alone for the first time.
Statistically, women live longer than men, which means your money has to last longer, too. That’s not just a financial fact – it's a life planning reality. You may need to plan for 30+ years of retirement, which means we need to think not only about income, but about quality of life, healthcare, and purpose.
This Is Where I Come In
As a Certified Financial Planner® professional who specializes in helping women prepare for retirement, I don’t just run numbers – I build personalized strategies that reflect your life, your goals, and your values.
We look at the full picture:
What do you want this next chapter to look like?
What fears are holding you back?
How can your money support not just your needs, but your dreams?
We’ll talk honestly, plan realistically, and create a future you can feel good about— one that not only supports your financial goals but also reflects the life you want to live in retirement.
Let’s Make Retirement Feel Like Freedom, Not Fear
You’ve spent your life giving your best to everyone else. Now it’s time to give yourself the same care, attention, and planning.
Because retirement isn’t just about having enough. It’s about becoming more – more confident, more prepared, and more at peace with what’s next.
You deserve a retirement that reflects who you are and what you’ve worked hard for. Let’s make it happen – together.
Connect with Me
The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized financial, legal, or tax advice. Individual circumstances vary, and retirement planning outcomes depend on a variety of personal and economic factors. Statements referring to emotional or lifestyle outcomes are aspirational and not guaranteed. Keating Financial Advisory Services, Inc. (KFAS) is a Registered Investment Advisor. Advisory services are provided only where KFAS is properly registered or exempt from registration. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making financial decisions related to retirement planning.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
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