Retirement planning doesn’t have to be all spreadsheets and stress. In fact, some of the smartest moves people make often bring them the greatest peace of mind later in life.
GOBankingRates spoke with Dennis Shirshikov, professor of finance at City University of New York and director of growth and engineering at GrowthLimit, to share the financial decisions that customers are most grateful for.
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“My experience counseling individuals at all income levels has taught me that retirement success is often driven by a few early, intentional decisions rather than complex financial engineering,” Hirshikov explains.
According to him, his clients made one financial move in particular that greatly simplified their retirement planning.
“The most impactful move is to clearly differentiate between lifestyle spending and long-term investments early in your career,” he says.
He explains that clients who treat superannuation as a non-negotiable, similar to taxes, avoid having to constantly readjust it later.
“This creates predictability and reduces stress as retirement approaches,” he adds.
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Hirshikov says clients who simplify their investment strategies benefit the most.
They do not chase performance or reallocate frequently, but instead focus on a diversified, long-term portfolio consistent with their time horizon.
“This reduces emotional decision-making and prevents costly timing errors during market volatility,” he added.
Hirshikov similarly noted that clients who prioritize reducing high-interest and lifestyle-driven debt before retirement have greater flexibility.
Lower fixed obligations mean their retirement income does not need to be as high, which preserves options for housing, healthcare and travel decisions.
In addition to the financial benefits, paying off debt early can reduce stress and give them a sense of control over their long-term plans.
One planning habit Hirschkov’s clients have helped them feel more confident in retirement.
“Regular financial review is crucial,” he explains.
Clients who revisit their plans every year, even briefly, are able to correct over time rather than reacting under pressure, he said.
This habit turns retirement planning into an ongoing process rather than a last-minute event.
