Millennials are a stressed-out generation. A study by the American Psychological Association reported that the group of Americans in their early 20s to late 30s came in at a 5.4 stress level on a scale of 1-10, higher than the average American at 4.9. Among the things keeping them up at night are the predictions […]
Millennials are a stressed-out generation.
A study by the American Psychological Association reported that the group of Americans in their early 20s to late 30s came in at a 5.4 stress level on a scale of 1-10, higher than the average American at 4.9.
Among the things keeping them up at night are the predictions of being the first generation that will be less well-off than their parents — and that includes retirements that potentially will be less secure. No longer do millennials have the pensions to look forward to in retirement like their parents and grandparents before them, and no longer do they have the confidence that Social Security will help at least supplement some of their retirement income.
Every generation has had its own set of trials and tribulations to conquer. However, today’s generation of young adults faces a uniquely challenging environment. And saving money for retirement is a luxury that many just can’t afford. Sometimes millennials have to struggle for a while in order to acquire a sound financial foundation for the future. Here are some tips to millennials for improving the odds their retirements will be a little more stress free.
Start saving and investing early
If it’s true that the early bird catches the worm, it’s certainly true that the early investor catches a sound retirement. If you start investing $2,000 a year for seven years in an IRA (individual retirement account) at the age of 19, you could be a millionaire by age 65. While it might not be practical for most 19-year-olds to invest $2,000 a year, the point is that making sacrifices and saving or investing money early makes life much easier down the road.
Be patient, it’s a long road ahead
Patience isn’t always the word that comes to mind when we think about millennials. However, if you’re working your first or second full-time job, and beginning to put money into investment accounts, you need to remember that retirement is a long way down the road. Stock-market volatility can make investors very emotional. But the worst move one can make in the middle of such turbulence is to bail. Many investors abandon long-term strategies for the presumed safety of cash. But millennials have time on their side to be patient with their investments.
Don’t be your own worst enemy
Obtaining guidance from a financial advisor can help millennials live the life they imagined during their working years and once they retire. The economy will go through ups and downs during your lifetime, but having a financial professional to guide you can improve your financial future and keep you from making some common, costly mistakes.
There is no greater value than peace of mind when it comes to your investments. The time for millennials to start thinking long term is now — before they get too far along in their career and realize they are going to have to start playing catch-up.
David Rosell (www.DavidRosell.com) is a financial professional and author of “Keep Climbing: A Millennial’s Guide to Financial Planning.”
