Inflation was eating me alive in retirement, so I went back to work. I’m now 66. Was I right?

Core Insights - The article discusses the importance of planning for retirement, emphasizing the need to consider inflation and the potential longevity of retirement savings over relying solely on Social Security benefits [10][11]. Group 1: Retirement Planning - Many individuals express concerns about outliving their savings and the impact of inflation on their retirement funds, with 92% of respondents in a survey highlighting inflation as a major concern [10]. - The article illustrates the benefits of delaying Social Security benefits, as individuals can significantly increase their monthly payments by waiting until a later age to claim [9][11]. - The experience shared in the article serves as a cautionary tale for those considering early retirement and collecting Social Security at 62, highlighting the potential financial strain that could arise from such a decision [6][9]. Group 2: Financial Management - The article mentions a personal strategy of maintaining a diversified investment portfolio, with a significant allocation to index funds and a cash reserve, which can provide financial security during retirement [2][11]. - It is noted that proper financial planning and understanding of personal finances are crucial for a comfortable retirement, as many retirees are unaware of how long their savings will last [10][11]. - The potential growth of a Roth 401(k) with a balanced investment strategy is discussed, projecting significant future value despite inflation [11].