This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
Save yourself, and quickly
Social security supplements your income; it is not supposed to be considered a complete financial solution to your lack of retirement savings.
Yet, many people end up in a challenging situation because they put all their eggs into one basket and regret not taking more control of their finances.
It’s never too late. Just get started.
If you didn’t take care of yourself in your youth, you might find yourself visiting the doctor for preventable illnesses more than necessary, or you may not. But as you increase in age, you should always find yourself at the doctor for your at least once a year for your annual exam.
The Government Always Moves In Its Best Interest
Some people will always be anti-government, but then other people are apolitical. Still, the government will always do what’s in its best interest.
If the government needs to cut back on dollars spent, the financial aid program you have 100% relied upon will have you f*cked.
Always have your own money in life, in relationships, in your career, and at home. No one will look out for you except yourself, which is why you must plan, strategize, and not become reliant on a primary source of income for your sole paycheck.
Trick: Ignore Financial Aid
If you know you’re on track to receive retirement or some stipend or subsidy, don’t count that in your retirement income. Let that be icing on the cake.
As a full-time college student, I got additional financial aid to help me finish school. Did I use it? No. It was a trap to make a fortune off me from student loan interest payments. Thankfully, I only took out what I needed and worked multiple jobs.
The promise of social security or federal or local funded programs is also a trap because these programs can be stripped from you at any point. You have no control over them.
Chase Financial Independence
When you’re financially independent, you’re less reliant on relationships, the government, and primary job income and immune to economic hardship (i.e., recessions).
Financial independence looks like this:
You don’t have to work, but you choose to.
You can take time off from work for extended periods.
You don’t feel anxious when you check your bank account.
You don’t collect bank account fees.
You don’t complain about gas prices. You don’t complain about anything being too pricey because you can afford it no matter what season the world is in.
You are generous to others without expecting anything in return.
You’re not anticipating or looking forward to handouts because you have prepared for your financial future.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.