The Number

About the Author

Lee Eisenberg is a notable figure in the literary and publishing world, having served as the editor in chief of Esquire magazine, where his leadership helped the publication secure multiple National Magazine Awards. His career extends beyond editing, as he has contributed to influential financial publications such as Money and Fortune. Eisenberg's work is characterized by its insightful exploration of complex topics in an accessible manner. In addition to The Number, he authored Breaking Eighty: A Journey Through the Nine Fairways of Hell, showcasing his diverse interests and expertise. In The Number, Eisenberg combines his journalistic acumen with a deep understanding of personal finance and life planning, offering readers a comprehensive guide to preparing for a fulfilling retirement.

Main Idea

The central premise of The Number is that retirement planning transcends mere financial calculations. Eisenberg asserts that understanding and achieving the "number"—the amount of money needed for retirement—is crucial, but not sufficient for a fulfilling life. He emphasizes the importance of aligning financial goals with personal values, dreams, and a clear vision of what constitutes a satisfying retirement. Eisenberg challenges readers to reflect on their life priorities, urging them to consider what truly matters to them beyond monetary concerns. This holistic approach to retirement planning is designed to help individuals not only secure their financial future but also ensure that their retirement years are rich in meaning and fulfillment.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The True Meaning of The Number
• What Do You Want From The Second Half Of Life?
• Which Type Of Person Are You?
• Debt Warp: The Hidden Pitfalls
• Eye-Opening Stats: A Reality Check
• Eisenberg's Uncertainty Principles
• Ten Simple Investing Rules
• The 'Sweats': Facing Financial Fears
• Downshifting: Redefining Quality of Life
• Deliberately Different: A New Perspective on Retirement

Introduction: The True Meaning of The Number

In the introduction, Eisenberg immediately sets the book apart from traditional financial guides. He begins by defining "The Number" not just as a financial target, but as a reflection of one's desired lifestyle in retirement. "This book is about money, but ultimately it's about the life you want, the life you don't and the costs of each" (Eisenberg). This statement encapsulates the book's dual focus: while understanding the financial requirements of retirement is necessary, it is equally important to grasp the qualitative aspects of life post-retirement. Eisenberg invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, to explore their deepest desires and fears about the future. This introspective approach sets the tone for the rest of the book, which blends financial advice with life coaching.

What Do You Want From The Second Half Of Life?

Eisenberg delves into a critical aspect of retirement planning: identifying personal goals and values. He poses fundamental questions to readers, encouraging them to envision their ideal retirement. This visioning process is crucial because it informs all subsequent financial planning decisions. Some questions Eisenberg suggests include:

1. What activities or hobbies do you want to pursue?
2. How important are travel and new experiences to you?
3. What kind of community or social connections do you wish to maintain or establish?
4. How do you see your role within your family, and what legacy do you want to leave?

By answering these questions, readers can create a detailed picture of their desired retirement lifestyle. This process helps in setting realistic financial goals that align with their aspirations. Eisenberg emphasizes that without a clear understanding of what one wants from life, financial planning can become an aimless exercise. He also highlights that these goals may evolve over time, necessitating periodic reassessment and adjustment of one's financial plans.

Which Type Of Person Are You?

To assist readers in understanding their approach to retirement planning, Eisenberg introduces four distinct personality types: Procrastinator, Plucker, Plotter, and Prober. These archetypes are designed to help individuals identify their strengths and weaknesses in financial planning.