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Living Big on a Shoestring Retirement Budget

Eight creative ideas for a fantastic year

Mel Schlesinger
Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age
5 min readJan 2, 2025

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It is hard to believe, but we are already in 2025. And while I believe that every day is another opportunity for a new start, there is something magical about the start of a new year.

For many retirees, living on a fixed budget can feel like a challenge to that dream. However, you don’t need a big bank account to live a big life. With a little creativity, smart planning, and a focus on what truly brings you joy, you can make this coming year one of your best yet. Whether you’re dreaming of new adventures, meaningful connections, or simply getting more out of each day, this guide will show you how to stretch your dollars and expand your possibilities.

Everything is Relative

I am interested in this topic because my wife and I started our retirement journey on a very tight budget. When we retired in June 2021 (I was 68 and my wife was 75), I panicked. Before June 2021, I planned to delay taking Social Security until I turned 70. My objective was to continue building my business in North Carolina for several more years. And hopefully, build more retirement savings.

Back then, I was convinced that retiring was a pretty stupid decision. However, as I look back, I am thrilled with our…

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Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age
Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age

Published in Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age

“The longer I live, the more beautiful life becomes.” (Frank Lloyd Wright) Non-fiction pieces, personal essays and occasional poems that explore how we feel about how we age and offer tips for getting the most out of life.

Mel Schlesinger
Mel Schlesinger

Written by Mel Schlesinger

Sort of retired. I am obsessed with happiness. As I write the last chapter of the story of my life, I want to share ideas on being happy.

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