Why I Love Retirement Planning At 29 Years Old

What does soccer have to do with retirement? A lot more than you'd think. As a 5'5" former college soccer player turned financial advisor, I’ve learned it’s not about brute strength. It’s about smart decisions. That mindset guides the way I approach financial planning today. At 29, people ask why I care so much about retirement. The answer is simple: good planning gives you time. And time with the people you love is the most valuable thing there is. I've seen how a well-structured plan, from managing taxes to optimizing healthcare and using flexible accounts, can buy you years with aging parents, a spouse, or even just your own freedom. But there are traps, like being "qualified rich." That $2 million in your 401(k)? After taxes and penalties, it’s not what it seems. That's why I'm a big fan of what I call “superhero accounts” like brokerage accounts that let you retire on your terms. And don’t get me started on the healthcare gap between early retirement and Medicare. It’s one of the biggest mindset hurdles we help people overcome. I got into this work after watching my own parents get burned by multiple advisors. Some were too fancy, some were too hands-off, and none truly planned holistically. That gap in the industry is what I aim to close. To me, the goal is recreational employment. Working because you want to, not because you have to. - Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation. The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial. Create Your Custom Early Retirement Strategy Here Get access to the same software I use for my clients and join the Early Retirement Academy here Ari Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.