Retirement: Smell the roses – with an eye on income

PLANNING for retirement typically focuses almost exclusively on the financial aspects – committing to a portfolio of stocks and bonds and anticipating the impact of inflation and expenses.

For the fortunate and disciplined, the ducks may well line up for a worry-free and generally happy retirement. But even so, non-financial aspects may cause pangs of regret.

I spoke with more than a handful of retired friends to find out what they regarded as the best things they had done prior to ceasing work, and what they might have regretted. Their ages ranged from mid-60s to around 78. Some retired early in their 50s.