Today I went to my cycling club picnic. In the morning, we gathered to decide what type of ride we would do. There were about 150 people there who all enjoy the sport in a variety of ways, and at different levels. There were three selections depending on how you ride, and what your purpose for riding is. Sixty miles for the faster, well trained athletes, Forty-two miles for those that like the challenge but aren't at the same level, and the 25 mile ride for the more casual riders. Some ride slow and have traditional bikes that have high, curved handlebars, big cushy seats and fat tires; they ride lower miles and like it to be casual and chatty. Yet others have mountain bikes with treads that grip the road, and springs for jumping, while other riders have high-end high-tech race bikes with carbon fiber frames, forks and seats...they like to go fast, and go far.
As I sat at the picnic bench and spoke with several cyclists, they all had one thing in common, a passion for the sport. They love it and are willing to put in the time it takes to go for their ride, be healthy, and enjoy it in whichever way they choose. But they know they need to put in the time to build up to that level, or it hurts. You can't just hop on a bike and ride 25 miles, even casually.
The same goes for your savings and retirement plan. You have to put in the time and effort to reach your financial goals. Planning ahead to know what your purpose is, to take it easy and relax, slow down and breathe. To take vacations, buy that RV, travel the country, buy a vacation home, or travel the world. It all takes planning. Regardless, you have to put in the work to see gain and get the rewards. Figuring out how to pursue that goal and having the support and encouragement from a professional can help to keep you on track.
Let me know if you would like to discuss your plan, check to see if you are on track, or need to get a financial fitness plan! I can help with that.
*The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.