For many people, saving enough for retirement can feel hard. Between paying bills, dealing with debt, and managing daily expenses, it’s easy to put off saving for the future. But you don’t have to be rich to build a strong retirement plan. In fact, most wealthy retirees didn’t start out with a lot of money—they just learned how to make smart money choices and stick with them.
One of the biggest secrets is simple: pay yourself first. That means saving a portion of your income before spending on anything else. As a recent Kiplinger article notes, people who automate savings—like sending money straight to a 401(k) or IRA—end up with 29% higher balances. Even if you can only save a little, doing it regularly helps your money grow. Wealthy people also make their money work harder by keeping it invested in stocks, ETFs, or high-yield savings accounts, instead of letting it sit where it earns little or no interest.
Another important habit is living below your means. Many wealthy retirees choose to spend less than they earn, saving the rest for the future. Research from the Employee Benefit Research Institute shows that retirees who overspend early often run into financial trouble later on. Living on about 70–80% of your income, Kiplinger reports, helps create a cushion for savings and long-term security.
Debt is another big challenge for many Americans. A 2025 National Debt Relief survey found that 72% of older Americans carry debt into retirement—and more than half feel overwhelmed by it. Kiplinger stresses that paying off high-interest debt, such as credit cards, is key to financial success . With average rates around 22%, credit card debt can quickly grow if not managed.
That’s where National Debt Relief’s expertise makes a difference. The company helps people take control of their finances by creating personalized plans to lower or settle unsecured debts, often giving clients the breathing room they need to rebuild savings and confidence.
The wealthy also know the value of having a plan. They set goals, make budgets, and meet with financial advisors to review progress. Kiplinger points out that retirees who plan carefully tend to save about twice as much as those who don’t.
The best part of Kiplinger’s message is that anyone can do this. You don’t need millions of dollars or a high salary to start. You just need to begin—by saving a little each month, paying down debt, and making your money work for you. Over time, small steps can add up to big results.
To learn more about these 13 simple habits and how to use them in your own life, read the full article on Kiplinger.
