[Antoninus]

Beyond that, I believe young people should focus on investing OUTSIDE a retirement plan, and on investing in themselves by learning valuable skills that will pay off better in the long run than traditional retirement savings.

I agree with this. In mid-life, I suddenly realized that I had a lot of money socked away in a 401K which I would have trouble getting at if it was ever needed. I had comparatively little in liquid cash. So I decided to scale-back the 401k additions the amount needed to maximize the company match--and put the rest into a brokerage account. Now, that money is available for investment, home improvement, new vehicles when needed, etc. and is collecting about 5% in interest.

[LibsRJerks]

I agree with this. In mid-life, I suddenly realized that I had a lot of money socked away in a 401K which I would have trouble getting at if it was ever needed. I had comparatively little in liquid cash. So I decided to scale-back the 401k additions the amount needed to maximize the company match—and put the rest into a brokerage account. Now, that money is available for investment, home improvement, new vehicles when needed, etc. and is collecting about 5% in interest.
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Smart. Please, can you convince my bone headed husband to do this!!