Maybe you’re planning for a far-off retirement or one that’s just around the corner. Or you may have already retired and want to know how to thrive during this time of your life. Whatever the case, there’s a retirement book to address your situation and give you advice on how to improve it.
Check out these six retirement books that are among the best:
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“Simple Path to Wealth: Your Road Map to Financial Independence and a Rich, Free Life,” by JL Collins
MarketWatch polled a panel of financial advisors to find out the best books to read If you're setting your sights on retiring early, and "Simple Path to Wealth" was the most recommended title. It was praised by one advisor as " … a book that can change how you think about early retirement, investing, and help you course correct to make it an actual possibility," and another praised its investment strategy as one that helps set you up with your best chance for success.
“The 5 Years Before You Retire,” by Emily Birken
As bezinga.com points out, most retirement books focus on starting to save early. But if you don't have enough saved and retirement is quickly approaching, "The 5 Years Before You Retire" lets you know how you can improve your savings quickly. The book also has worksheets and forms so you can create a personalized picture of your family's finances.
“Roadmap for the Rest of Your Life,” by Bart Astor
AARP's book lets you look at where you are now in your life and helps you determine where you want to be next. Its advice goes far beyond just the financial and includes advice on what activities would give your life meaning and whether you should keep your house or downsize. You'll also find helpful lists on a variety of topics, including what to cover when you talk to your kids about your life affairs.
“The Retirement Maze: What You Should Know Before and After You Retire,” by Robert Pascale
Retirement is usually assumed to be a happy time, but that's not always the case. On barnesandnoble.com, Jeff Somers recommends "The Retirement Maze," which was inspired by its author's unhappy retirement. Although he expected to enjoy this phase of his life, Pascale was instead bored and unhappy. He responded by interviewing retirees to figure out what made some of them happy and some of them unhappy.
“How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free,” by Ernie J. Zelinski
This book has been recommended by many sites, including wallstreetmojo.com. Zelinski emphasizes that enjoying your retirement isn't just about money. He also recommends focusing on other areas to make retirement the best time of your life, such as maintaining your physical and mental health and growing your circle of friends.
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“Women’s Worth: Finding Your Financial Confidence,” by Eleanor Blayney
Women can face some gender-specific issues when it comes to retirement since they sometimes take time off from their careers if they have young children and may also earn less than men. "Women's Worth," recommended by bezinga.com, helps women understand their challenges and explains how they can catch up on their retirement savings.
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