Self love and building wealth are connected
In this issue, we’ll address the 4% rule used by many for retirement planning and financial self love.
The Wealth Minute
The 4% Rule and why it could burn you
This week we're going to dive into a well use tool of most retirement planning professionals...the 4% rule.
The 4% rule is a simple guideline for retirement planning. It helps you figure out how much money you can safely withdraw from your savings each year without running out of money.
Here’s how it works:
Save up for retirement – Let’s say you have $1 million saved.
Withdraw 4% in the first year – That means you take out $40,000 to cover your expenses.
Adjust for inflation – Each year, you increase the amount you withdraw slightly to keep up with rising prices.
The idea is that if your money is invested (like in stocks and bonds), it should grow over time, giving you a high chance of making your money last 30 years or more.
While the 4% rule is a helpful guideline, it has several challenges that might make it less reliable in real life.
Market Fluctuations. The rule assumes a steady return on investments, but markets can be unpredictable. A major stock market crash early in retirement (like 2008) could significantly reduce savings.
Inflation Uncertainty. The rule assumes a certain level of inflation, but if inflation is higher than expected (like in recent years), your purchasing power may decline faster than planned.
Longevity Risk. The rule is based on a 30-year retirement. If you live longer than that, you might outlive your savings.
Lack of Personalization. Everyone’s situation is different—some people may have pensions, rental income, or Social Security that changes their needs. Because of these challenges, many experts suggest adjusting withdrawals over time rather than sticking strictly to 4%.
What does all of this mean for you and your retirement? You can't just set it and forget it. You have to plan for it.
But good news...you don't have to go it alone.
Wealth Move
Click here to learn more about the 4% rule.
Register to attend the FREE Financial Forecasting webinar where you'll learn all about this amazing tool and how it helps you plan the amount you will need for retirement (or any other financial goal).
It's on Saturday, so register today! You'll get the replay if you can't attend live.
The Freedom Path
Money & Self Love Go Together
I had the privilege of hanging out with LaToya Rozof last night.
She's the owner of 79Roze and spends most Monday nights discussing the importance of having self-love and body positivity.
When she asked me to join her live, I don't think she expected me to tie self-love to finances.
But of course I did!
One of the best ways to love yourself is to have your financial house in order.
Financial fitness is an act of self-love that gives you peace of mind, freedom, and security.
Here is a short list of ways to show yourself some love in the financial realm.
Set goals that inspire you. Whether it's buying a home, traveling, or retiring early, having clear financial goals will keep you motivated and disciplined.
Practice Mindful Spending. Before making a purchase, ask yourself: "Do I truly need this?" and "Does this align with my goals?" This helps curb impulse spending.
Educate Yourself About Money. Do you read the book of the month showcased in the section below? Seriously. Either pick up a copy from the library or start a shared library. Regardless of how you get your hands on a copy, take the time to reach each month's book and you'll thank yourself a year from now.
Live Below Your Means. Just because you can afford something doesn’t mean you should buy it. Spend wisely and focus on long-term financial stability.
Wealth Move
Click here to learn more about loving yourself well, financially speaking.
And increase your knowledge by attending this Saturday's FREE webinar showcasing the Financial Forecasting planning system. Click here to register.
Book of The Month
The March 2025 book of the month is "The Richest Man In Babylon by George S. Clason.
I read this book every year. It was originally written in 1926 and is STILL RELEVANT.
The edition I'm giving is the updated version to making it easier to understand.
Take notes and implement what you learn.
Coffee Chat Question
If we were to meet for coffee, what would you want to know?
Feel free to email me questions that will anonymously be added to this section during each edition.
“I'm a federal employee and I'm afraid I'm going to lose my job. How do I prepare when I don't have much money saved?”
I understand your concern. It's confusing for so many people.
The key is to not panic. And I know that's easier said than done, especially when information is changing so rapidly.
I teach my clients to do two things...control their controllables and pray.
Below are a few ways to control your controllables:
Make minimum payments on everything and limit spending.
Cut subscriptions until this season of uncertainty passes.
Get a side gig. Cash flow is the name of the game. Having some extra income coming in will help ease the sting out of a tough situation.
Pull back any income that you can uncommit. This might not be the year for a vacation. Can you get the deposit back? What about purchases that can be returned?
Click here for a list of scriptures to help you get through this challenging time.
And click here for my daily devotional that's filled with how we got through.
