Do This Today If You Want a Successful Retirement

A Mass Mutual study on retiree happiness reveals that while 67% report greater daily happiness than during working years, key factors beyond nest egg size determine success. Hosts Brian Preston and Bo Hanson draw from the survey and client experiences to outline actionable steps rooted in common psychological pitfalls, urging preparation now to retire to something fulfilling rather than just escape work.

Combating Loneliness Through Social Structure

Nearly half (47%) of unhappy retirees cited loneliness as the main issue, stemming from the sudden loss of workplace "family"—the daily interactions often exceeding time with household members. Happiness research, including the hosts' own Millionaire Mission, consistently links relationships to well-being. The psychology here is straightforward: work provides unintended social scaffolding; without a replacement, isolation erodes satisfaction.

Practical fix: Audit your social life. If colleagues form your core network, build alternatives now—volunteer, join groups, or nurture hobbies with others. Retire to a plan, not just from a job. This preemptive shift prevents the 33% who remain unhappy despite financial security.