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Yes, when you ask yourself the question โ€œWill I outlive my money?โ€ itโ€™s true, it doesnโ€™t exactly elicit a warm and fuzzy feeling. Sweaty palms is more like it. But itโ€™s a question we all wonder about, especially after booking Business Class to Paris. Sorry kids!

In my first conversation with prospective clients, I can usually tell within about 17-seconds whether or not weโ€™re a good fit. It mainly has to do with a grasp of reality. The cold reality of our recommended draw rate of three to four percent per year can set an early tone. And hearing โ€œthe lower the betterโ€ most definitely does.

Yes, of course, there are the exceptions to the rule. They go something like this: โ€œE.J., you only live once!โ€ or โ€œYou know, E.J., Iโ€™ve always wanted to go toโ€ฆitโ€™s on my bucket listโ€, or โ€œE.J., itโ€™s in a neighborhood that really holds its value.โ€ Itโ€™s not always fun being that little guy on your shoulder.

But, in reality, there will be years when you spend more than other years. Thatโ€™s just life. The key is to recognize them and plan accordingly. And, I might add, remembering that Premium Economy to Paris is quite comfortable.

Maximum Portfolio Withdrawal Rate

Originally posted on Yoursurvivalguy.com.