I read an article recently which discussed the gap between what people think they spend and what they actually spend.  It referenced that this gap has widened recently as the financial and psychological effects of higher prices negatively impact on people’s budgets.  This gap should be factored in when you think about how much income you are projecting as being needed when you retire. It is natural not to want to think about this, in that it can be disconcerting to see what we spend because it may include those one off purchases that we rationalized at the moment, but didn’t factor in for a future consequence.  Call us so we can help you navigate this comparison of your needs versus your future income. We’re always here to help.