Not focusing on what it takes to retire from Day 1. I did several startups and always dreamed I would retire rich from those pursuits. I got close, but no cigar. I am 42, and just a few years ago turned my sights hardcore towards hitting retirement goals. It might take another 20 years. It is something I will drive into my kids once they enter college. I will still also encourage them to do startups, but I will want them to understand the impact it has on their ability to retire early.
Side note: if I had held the Amazon stock I sold to start my second company and focused on retirement the past 15 years I would be (semi) retiring right about now.
Side note: if I had held the Amazon stock I sold to start my second company and focused on retirement the past 15 years I would be (semi) retiring right about now.