So Sick of "Save for Retirement" Advice!

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-13-2003
So Sick of "Save for Retirement" Advice!
21
Thu, 01-12-2006 - 8:47pm

I just had to post a vent ... I'm so tired of hearing/reading all the experts go on and on about how you have to save for retirement early in life or you're sunk! I'm sure it's true, and that's why I'm so sick of it!

Dh hasn't had a full-time job for the past 11 months. He and I both work part-time jobs (he has about 7!) whenever possible (he works all kinds of crazy hours, even overnight, so my only job has been work-at-home clerical, which paid well but was temporary) and are just treading water financially. Even before he was laid off, our income had dropped each year for the past 5 years (terrible job market/economy here in Michigan -- the worst in the nation, last I read). I don't know when we'll ever be able to pay off our debt and start really saving.

And we'll both be 37 this year ... I feel like we'll never be able to move out of our tiny house, or upgrade his car, or ever have enough money to retire!!

I'm feeling sad and jealous of anyone and everyone who has a good stable job. *sigh* I know we'll get past this eventually ... won't we?? Any words of encouragement would be SO appreciated!!!! :-)

Amy

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iVillage Member
Registered: 05-09-2002
Sat, 01-14-2006 - 12:23pm

I feel for you as well. I am single, 29, just started as savings and have no retirement. My bf is a pilot and was laid off from his 4th airline last year. He did get another job after 9 months and although we don't live together, we see a good relationship future but are both so frustrated with our debt.

A close friend used to tell me all about her savings, her 75k a year position, her great credit and new car. She and her husband bought another new car and a new "starter home" (you should have seen this place), vacations and a big screen tv. It turns out, her husband had a major drinking problem and she didn't know if she was even happy anymore. She had the finances set, but nothing else...

I keep a picture of a local high school guy who was born without legs near my computer. He played football somehow, gets around on a skateboard and is just amazing. I look at that and think "i have my health, my legs, my loved ones. My life is as good as it gets". Obvioulsy finances still get me down, but that picutre is outstanding perspective.

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