When Retirement Comes Earlier Than Planned: A Case Study in Financial Optionality
Earlier this week, I had a call with a long-time client who had just lost his corporate job. It wasn’t expected. He’d spent years in logistics, built a strong career, and had planned to retire several years down the road. But life had other ideas.
Initially, he felt uncertain—hesitant about what came next. Starting over wasn’t appealing, especially later in his career. But as we reviewed his financial plan, something became clear: he didn’t have to start over. He had options.
Because he and his spouse had consistently lived below their means and directed those resources toward long-term investing, they had built a foundation that could support retirement—even if it arrived earlier than planned. Once we walked through the numbers—401(k) reinvestment, cash flow planning, healthcare coverage—the mood shifted from concern to relief.
This wasn’t the retirement timeline he had envisioned. But it was one he could choose with confidence.
For Cardinal Health employees, this story may feel familiar. Many of you are in mid-to-late career stages, balancing equity compensation, retirement planning, and the realities of a fast-changing world. We all like to believe we’re fully in control of our retirement timeline—but sometimes, we’re not. That’s why preparation matters.
Financial planning isn’t just about hitting a number—it’s about creating optionality. The ability to pivot when life throws a curveball. The freedom to choose your next step, even when it wasn’t part of the original plan.
He didn’t retire out of fear or necessity. He retired with confidence, because the groundwork was already in place. And that readiness came from years of quiet discipline—spending less than he earned, investing consistently, and building a plan that could flex when he needed it the most.
The takeaway?
Optionality is one of the most powerful outcomes of good financial planning. It’s not about retiring at 65—it’s about being prepared for whatever life hands you, whether that’s a promotion, a relocation, or an unexpected job loss.
If you’re wondering what financial flexibility could look like for you—or how to build a plan that supports multiple outcomes—I’d be happy to talk.
Take care and, as always, stay the course.
Colburn Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.