No such thing as "Retirement"**Prices rising**Child(ren) needs or wants**Glitchy

In today's world, the concept of retirement seems increasingly unrealistic for many people. With prices steadily rising, the financial cushion that retirement once promised often falls short, especially when families face the ongoing costs of raising children and meeting their ever-changing needs. Many of us experience frustration with products that don’t last—glitchy phones, cars that need constant repairs, and household items that wear out quickly. It's as if everything we rely on is slowly falling apart, just like our own bodies do with time. This constant wear and tear means that budgeting and planning require even more attention. From personal experience, adapting to these challenges means accepting that 'retirement' won't be a simple phase of life where financial worries disappear. Instead, it becomes essential to create flexible plans that account for unexpected expenses and the need to continually upgrade or replace important possessions. Prioritizing savings and investing in quality products—even if more expensive upfront—can mitigate some of these frustrations. Furthermore, the rising cost of living compels many to reconsider their lifestyle choices, focusing on sustainability and thrift to stretch resources. Approaching life with this mindset means being proactive about maintenance and repairs, extending the lifespan of items, and teaching children about financial responsibility early on. Ultimately, while there is truth in the notion that everything—products and bodies alike—degrades over time, embracing this reality with strategic planning can help us navigate these pressures more successfully.