Paul, Niki, Leigh, and Kyle discuss the major psychological shift that happens when someone moves from decades of saving for retirement to actually living on their investments. Many retirees struggle with anxiety as they transition from a predictable paycheck to relying on market-dependent income, especially when selling principal or watching account balances decline. They compare traditional retirees—who often rely on selling assets or the 4% rule—to dividend-focused retirees who can live more confidently on consistent income without touching principal. The episode emphasizes understanding your “shortfall,” building an income plan, and staying within guardrails to avoid unknowingly overspending. Ultimately, they frame dividend income as a stabilizing “retirement paycheck” that can reduce fear, create freedom, and help retirees live with clarity and confidence.

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