What have I learned so far?

[dessert]

Age is 56, plan to RE at 59. I found this site because I was searching for information about how others were doing financially and to compare my situation to theirs.
I have been getting my ducks in a row recently and am trying to plan for RE. Since I found this site I downloaded a recommended spreadsheet and now I know that DW and I spent 32K last year and we know exactly where most of it went.
I am now filling the spreadsheet for 2007 and will have more accurate data for this year.
I learned that there are a couple of books that will help me to manage my own investments after RE, and to help me fill in my time after RE.
I also learned that it is quite expensive to have others manage my investments when I could do an adequate job. I'm doing it now and can continue.
I learned that my 401K is with a reputable company and I'm glad about that.
I learned that 4% SWR will more than satisfy our needs and will not even take that much out.
I learned that I am fortunate to have a Pension and that is quite rare among the members here.
I learned that we have been LBYM without even trying and now are glad that we have been.
I have learned that others have their money in fewer funds that I have mine in.
I have learned what my Expense ratios are and that my 401k is actually more conservatively invested than I thought it was. I even know about "beta" now.
I still have more to learn and I've really just started.
Now I've got to get those books.........

 

[crazy connie]

Now I've got to get those books.........

And now it is time to go to the library! Only pay for those you plan top use as a reference on a routine basis. The books for the most part are to get your thinking straight and it sounds like it is with a minor tweak or two!

 

[samclem]

Sounds like you are well on your way. While it sounds like you might have been just fine without any additional research, it's a big comfort to see how the parts fit together, to confirm that everything is going to be okay, and to get an idea of how other folks are doing things. I learn new things here every day.
Good luck!

 

[cute fuzzy bunny]

If you do an 'advanced search' and look for 'book report' and check the 'title only' box, you might find that the books you're interested in have already had a synopsis and discussion done that might serve as either a super condensed readers digest version, or at least a pre-read of the book for content.

 

[wstu32]

i learned
-to stop worrying so much about the day to day fluctuations
-put a plan together and stick to it
-a good plan is one that allows you to sleep at night
-vti is a great etf! thanks nords it allows you to put some money on "cruise control"