Crucial Steps for the “Pre-Go” Years Before Retirement

Retirement planning requires a dual focus on financial preparation and emotional readiness, starting approximately ten years before the target retirement date. Dana Anspach, CEO of Sensible Money and author of *Living Off Your Acorns*, identifies the "pre-go" phase as a critical period for aligning portfolios and tax strategies. Key tactics include de-risking investments through income ladders—gradually shifting from equities to fixed-income assets—and utilizing tax-efficient withdrawal strategies during the window before required minimum distributions. Beyond the math, retirees must address the "arrival fallacy" and potential identity loss by proactively planning for purpose and social connection. Adopting a "red, yellow, green" decision-making framework helps simplify complex choices, allowing individuals to prioritize personal values and peace of mind while navigating the transition from a career-focused life to one of fulfillment.