Book review of 10 Critical Mistakes in Retirement Planning

by Jeff Kikel (Author)

Updated at: 06/01/2025

Secure your financial future with Jeff Kikel's "10 Critical Mistakes in Retirement Planning." This practical guide, written by a financial planner with over 30 years of experience, identifies common retirement pitfalls and offers clear solutions. From managing investment risk and healthcare costs to developing sound withdrawal strategies and navigating emotional transitions, Kikel provides actionable advice through real-life scenarios. Avoid costly errors and ensure a prosperous retirement by learning to recognize and rectify these ten critical mistakes. This straightforward, no-nonsense approach cuts through the complexities, empowering you to build a secure and fulfilling retirement plan. Don't delay—secure your financial freedom today.

10 Critical Mistakes in Retirement Planning (and How to Fix Them): A Practical Guide to Securing Your Financial Freedom and Retirement Income (Sure Horizon Retirement Series)

4.7 / 16 ratings

Review 10 Critical Mistakes in Retirement Planning

"10 Critical Mistakes in Retirement Planning" by Jeff Kikel isn't just another dry financial guide; it's a genuinely helpful and surprisingly readable resource for anyone thinking about their future retirement, whether that's decades away or just around the corner. Kikel, drawing on his considerable experience, tackles the often-daunting topic with a clear and straightforward approach. He avoids overwhelming readers with jargon, instead using real-life examples to illustrate the ten common mistakes he identifies. These aren't abstract concepts; they're relatable scenarios that resonate with the anxieties and uncertainties many people feel about securing their financial future.

What struck me most was the book's practicality. It's not enough to simply point out potential problems; Kikel actively provides solutions and strategies for addressing them. He breaks down complex financial ideas into manageable chunks, making the information accessible even to those who aren't finance experts. For instance, the section on healthcare costs, often a significant and unpredictable expense, was particularly insightful, offering concrete steps to better prepare for this crucial aspect of retirement. Similarly, the discussions on investment strategies and withdrawal plans were well-explained and empowering.

The book's strength lies in its ability to combine practical advice with a touch of emotional intelligence. It acknowledges that retirement involves more than just numbers; it's a significant life transition with emotional implications. While the focus is primarily on the financial aspects, Kikel touches upon the emotional adjustments that accompany this phase of life, offering a more holistic perspective that I found refreshing. This is a book that doesn't just help you plan your finances; it helps you plan your life.

While overwhelmingly positive, the book isn't without its minor drawbacks. Some reviewers mentioned a few editorial oversights, like minor errors and repetitive sections. While I encountered a couple of these minor inconsistencies, they didn't significantly detract from the overall value of the book. Additionally, the slightly sales-pitchy tone in some chapters felt a tad intrusive, although it's understandable given the author's profession.

Ultimately, "10 Critical Mistakes in Retirement Planning" is a valuable resource that I would recommend to anyone serious about securing their financial future. It's a book that empowers readers with knowledge and actionable strategies, helping them to navigate the complexities of retirement planning with confidence. While it could benefit from a more thorough edit to polish some rough edges, the core content remains incredibly useful and provides a solid foundation for building a comfortable and secure retirement. It's a book that deserves a place on your bookshelf if you're looking to proactively shape your future.