Retirement Planning - have I made a royal mistake?

[coffecakecrocodile]

It may not feel like it for a while, maybe even years, but you will be fine. Early career, expenses are high. Later on, your salary will be higher and some debts paid off.

I just retired from a tenured academic job - no pension, just a small match on a 401a and the option to contribute to both a 403b and a 457b. Once I could, I maxed them both. If you do that, it will add up! I’m in good shape financially, despite feeling like I struggled at the beginning. You will be too.

Worry about being good and your job, and about staying active outside of work. Good luck!

Baguette

Thanks, and thanks for the encouragement! I'm still psychologically adjusting to not having this pension option, but I agree that I'll be able to max out my 403b options and do more later.

Congrats on your retirement!