Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, especially with so much information—and uncertainty—to navigate. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it out on your own. With a clear plan and the right guidance, you can feel more confident about your financial future and make informed decisions every step of the way.
Recent studies show that many Canadians share similar concerns. According to the 2025 CPP Investments Retirement Survey¹, 59% of Canadians worry they may outlive their retirement savings. In addition, a recent Manulife report² found that nearly half of Canadians feel they are behind in saving for retirement.
While these statistics may seem discouraging, they also highlight an important opportunity: having a plan can make a meaningful difference.
Why Retirement Planning Matters
Retirement isn’t just about reaching a certain age—it’s about creating the lifestyle you want and having the confidence that your money can support it.
Whether your retirement dreams include travelling, spending more time with family, pursuing hobbies, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life, setting clear financial goals helps turn those dreams into an achievable plan.
One of the most valuable tools in retirement planning is creating a retirement income projection.
Rather than focusing only on the size of your retirement savings, cash flow planning along with a retirement income projection looks at how your income and expenses will work together throughout retirement. It helps answer important questions such as:
- Will I have enough income to maintain my lifestyle?
- When should I start my CPP and OAS benefits?
- How long will my savings last?
- What happens if inflation or unexpected expenses arise?
- Can I comfortably afford travel or other retirement goals?
Understanding how your retirement income will be used provides greater clarity and helps you make decisions with confidence today.
Five Steps Toward a More Confident Financial Future
1. Picture the Retirement You Want
Take some time to think about what retirement looks like for you. What activities are most important? Will you travel? Stay close to home? Help family members? Having a clear vision gives your financial plan purpose and direction.
2. Set Clear Financial Goals
Once you know what you want your retirement to look like, estimate what it may cost and establish realistic savings goals. Specific targets make it easier to track your progress and adjust along the way.
3. Make Saving Part of Your Routine
Consistent saving—even in smaller amounts—can have a significant impact over time. Paying yourself first by contributing regularly to your retirement savings helps build momentum and keeps you moving toward your goals.
4. Review Your Progress Regularly
Life changes, and your retirement plan should change with it. Regular reviews allow you to adjust your savings, investment strategy, or retirement timeline as your circumstances evolve.
5. Know Where You Stand
One of the best ways to reduce uncertainty is to understand your current financial picture. Knowing whether you’re on track—or identifying opportunities to improve—can provide valuable peace of mind.
Let’s Plan Together
If you’re wondering whether you’re on track for retirement, now is an excellent time to create a retirement income projection with Vince or April.
A personalized retirement income projection goes beyond looking at your account balance. It helps you understand:
- How much retirement income your savings may provide.
- How CPP, OAS, workplace pensions, and personal savings work together.
- Whether your expected income will support your desired lifestyle.
- Opportunities to improve your long-term financial outlook before you retire.
Combined with thoughtful cash flow planning, a retirement income projection can help answer many of the questions that keep people awake at night—and provide reassurance that you’re making informed decisions for your future.
No matter where you are on your retirement journey, having a conversation today can help you feel more prepared for tomorrow. We’re here to help you build a retirement plan that reflects your goals, supports your lifestyle, and gives you greater confidence in the years ahead.
¹ CPP Investments, 2025 Retirement Survey
² Manulife / National Institute on Ageing (2026), Longevity and Retirement Readiness Report
