Feeling Overwhelmed by Retirement Choices? Take Inventory Before You Decide.

Hey folks, this is Mike Lanway with All About FERS.

Today I want to talk directly to those of you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, or just plain tired of not knowing what to do next with your career. I know the atmosphere is heavy right now. It’s not just your own internal stress—you’re often carrying the weight of the people around you, your agency, and the fast-moving mandates of the current administration.

That’s a lot. So let’s start here:
Let’s give you a space to breathe and think clearly.

When it comes to navigating the complex world of federal retirement—especially choices like VERA (Voluntary Early Retirement Authority), VSIP (Voluntary Separation Incentive Pay), or Discontinued Service Retirement (DSR)—you need more than a quick reaction. You need a plan based on your life, not just your job.

That’s why I always say: Start by taking inventory.

What Kind of Inventory?
Let’s break it down:

• Personal & Professional Priorities:
  What matters most to you right now? Is it stability? Is it freedom? Is it time with your family, or pursuing something new? Knowing your values helps shape the right decision.
  
• Your Budget & Retirement Expectations:
  What income do you really need now—and in retirement? How does your FERS pension, TSP, and Social Security fit into that picture?
  
• What You Already Have:
  Take a full look at your benefits. What are you vested in? What guaranteed income do you already own? What gaps need filling?
  
• Best Use of Assets:
  Should you stay and maximize your current benefits? Or take a different route that gives you more control? What are the short- and long-term trade-offs?
  

Choosing the Right Path: VERA/VSIP or DSR?
Whether you’re considering:

• VERA (Voluntary Early Retirement) or VSIP (Separation Incentive Pay)
  
• Discontinued Service Retirement
  

…each path has pros and cons based on your situation. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. But there is a right fit for you.

When you take inventory of your needs, values, and finances, the best decision becomes clear—and the stress starts to lift.

From Panic to Peace of Mind
That’s really what this process is all about. It’s not just about FERS forms or retirement dates. It’s about reclaiming your clarity and your confidence. When you slow down and really evaluate what matters most, you can move forward with a sense of calm and control.

You’ll go from “What do I do?” to “I know what I need to do.”

So take some time today.
Reflect. Evaluate. Prioritize.
And when you’re ready—we’re here to help guide you through it.

Wishing you clarity, peace of mind, and a good rest of your day.
—Mike Lanway