In a recent LinkedIn post, Ryan Gomez, CFP® discusses a seemingly counterintuitive approach to retirement planning, highlighting the value of life experiences over maximizing every last dollar saved. He shares a personal reflection on choosing travel over potentially accumulating an additional $1,124,000 for retirement over 35 years, based on a 10% annual return on $40,000 spent over five years.
The Value of Experience Beyond Financial Returns
Ryan Gomez, CFP® posits that while the financial implications of not investing a certain amount might seem stark, the returns from life experiences can be far more profound. He argues that the perspective gained, friendships built, and the sheer breadth of experiences from traveling to over 30 countries across four continents are invaluable.
“What that $40k actually bought me: -A perspective on life no stock portfolio can give you -Friendships I never would have built sitting at a desk -Backpacking through 30+ countries across 4 continents”
According to Gomez, these are the kinds of returns that a traditional investment portfolio cannot replicate. He emphasizes that money, in his view, should be seen as a tool to facilitate a fulfilling life, rather than an end goal in itself.
Rethinking Retirement Goals
Defining ‘Enough’ for Retirement
Gomez challenges the notion that accumulating an immense sum is the sole objective of retirement planning. He suggests a more balanced approach for his clients, advocating for saving enough to meet their defined financial goals and then spending the remainder on whatever brings them joy and fulfillment.
“You don’t need $1,124,000 more to be happy in retirement. You need enough.”
This perspective shifts the focus from an arbitrary wealth target to a more personalized definition of financial security. As Ryan Gomez, CFP® notes, the critical step is accurately calculating the necessary savings amount and then optimizing investments and taxes from that foundation.
Balancing Wealth Accumulation with a Life Worth Living
The core of Gomez’s message is the integration of wealth building with life enrichment. He argues against a retirement scenario where immense wealth is accumulated at the expense of life memories and experiences.
“Retiring with $10M+ but zero memories isn’t the goal. Build wealth AND a life worth living. Future you will thank you for both.”
In his view, true retirement success lies in achieving a state where one has sufficient financial resources to live comfortably while also having cultivated a rich tapestry of life experiences. This dual pursuit, he concludes, is what ultimately leads to long-term satisfaction and gratitude.
Ryan Gomez, CFP®’s insights encourage a re-evaluation of what constitutes a successful retirement, advocating for a holistic approach that values both financial security and a life well-lived.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Ryan Gomez, CFP® on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on August 14, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →