Most people are planning their retirement on false beliefs. Here’s what you need to know.

The 3 biggest myths about retirement (and what’s really true)

September 15, 20252 min read

Over the last decade, I’ve had hundreds of conversations about retirement.

And while everyone’s goals look different, the same misconceptions keep popping up again and again.

Here are the big ones:

Myth #1: “I can’t retire until 67.”

Wrong.

That’s the age pension age.

You can retire whenever you’re financially ready — 35, 40, 50, 55, 60.

The key isn’t the government’s age limit, it’s whether you’ve built enough wealth (and have a clear plan) to support the lifestyle you want.

Myth #2: “I’ll just get the Age Pension.”

Not so fast.

If you’re a couple with assets over $1 million (excluding your home), you won’t get a cent.

And even if you qualify later, it often won’t be enough to cover the lifestyle most people want.

That’s why planning to self-fund most of your retirement is so important.

Myth #3: “I’ll spend less when I retire.”

This one trips up a lot of people.

In reality, most retirees spend more in their first 10 years: travel, hobbies, helping kids, renovations, medical costs.

Your spending usually shifts, but it doesn’t magically disappear.

Retirement isn’t about an age or about “hoping” the pension will be there.

It’s about clarity and action.

One quote I always come back to is:

“A goal without a plan is just a wish.”

If you want freedom of choice, whether that’s 55, 60, or 67 the earlier you get a plan in place, the more options you’ll have.

So, here’s my challenge:

Do you know the age you could retire at if you wanted to?

Or are you relying on guesswork and myths?

Contact us with “Retire Ready” and we’ll help you map out a clear path, so you can stop wondering and start planning.

Because retirement isn’t about reaching a finish line at 67.

It’s about being ready when you choose.

7Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 44609210246 is a Corporate Authorised Representatives and is authorised through Cobalt Advisers Pty Ltd ABN 64 628 654 099 who is an Australian Financial Services Licensee 512550. 7Wealth Pty Ltd is a Credit Representative of Australian Finance Group Ltd ABN 11 066 385 822 (AFG) Australian Credit Licence 389087.  
This blog contains information that is general in nature. It does not constitute financial or taxation advice. The information does not take into account your objectives, needs and circumstances. We recommend that you obtain investment and taxation advice specific to your investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs before making any investment decision or acting on any of the information contained in this document. Subject to law, Cobalt Advisers Pty Ltd nor their directors, employees or authorised representatives, do not give any representation or warranty as to the reliability, accuracy or completeness of the information; or accepts any responsibility for any person acting, or refraining from acting, on the basis of the information contained in this document. 
 

James Harris is the founder of 7Wealth and a financial adviser with a passion for helping people take control of their wealth and retire with confidence. With years of experience guiding clients through smart financial strategies, James simplifies the complex, ensuring his clients make informed decisions about their future. When he's not shaping financial success, he's embracing adventure with his family, having spent 15 months traveling Australia in a caravan.

James Harris

James Harris is the founder of 7Wealth and a financial adviser with a passion for helping people take control of their wealth and retire with confidence. With years of experience guiding clients through smart financial strategies, James simplifies the complex, ensuring his clients make informed decisions about their future. When he's not shaping financial success, he's embracing adventure with his family, having spent 15 months traveling Australia in a caravan.

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