In a recent LinkedIn post, Michael Merlin discusses why retirement preparation should cover more than savings. His post argues that people also need to plan for the routines, relationships and sense of purpose that may change when work ends. This article examines Merlin’s perspective as shared on LinkedIn.
“Retirement readiness goes beyond having enough money.”
Building a realistic financial picture
Merlin points to several practical gaps that can complicate retirement: overlooking ordinary expenses, underestimating healthcare costs and knowing a target retirement date without having a plan for income. According to Merlin, a useful starting point is to estimate monthly spending after employment income stops, then account for healthcare, insurance and unexpected medical expenses.
He also recommends mapping potential income sources, including Social Security, pensions and investments. The post does not offer specific financial projections; instead, Merlin emphasizes understanding how those sources may support a person’s expected lifestyle.
“Understand where your monthly income will come from, including Social Security, pensions, investments, and other sources.”
Preparing for changes to daily life
Merlin’s broader point is that leaving a job can alter more than a household budget. Work often structures time and provides regular contact with colleagues. In his view, retirement planning should therefore include thinking ahead about how to use the time that employment once occupied and how to maintain connections outside the workplace.
Time, relationships and purpose
Merlin suggests considering activities, interests, travel, learning or personal projects that could shape life after work. He also encourages people to strengthen relationships and establish activities beyond their workplace before retirement begins. These suggestions frame the transition as something to prepare for gradually, rather than only as a financial milestone.
Purpose is another part of his framework. Merlin asks readers to consider what will give their days meaning when a career is no longer at the center of life. That question extends his advice beyond budgeting, while keeping the focus on individual choices and circumstances.
“Retirement is more than leaving work. It is preparing for a life beyond work.”
A wider definition of readiness
Merlin’s post presents retirement readiness as a combination of financial planning and preparation for everyday life after employment. His checklist covers expenses, healthcare and income alongside time, relationships and purpose. The practical implication of his argument is that people may benefit from reviewing both sides of the transition while they still have time to make adjustments.
Merlin closes by asking readers what they are preparing for beyond the financial side. He also points readers to his book, Financial Longevity: Increase Your Wealth Span, Spend Money Guilt-Free, and Gain the Confidence to Enjoy Your Bigger Future.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Michael Merlin on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on November 3, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →