Client Spotlight: Debbie Hilberg's Retirement Journey

I’m thrilled to launch my Client Spotlight series, highlighting real stories from clients who’ve successfully reached retirement or other similar financial successes.  These spotlights are here to offer insights, inspire, and remind you that with thoughtful planning, a fulfilling retirement is within reach.

A huge thank you to Debbie Hillberg for sharing her journey with honesty and openness.  Her experience, from her “breakaway moment” to the joys of retired life, is a testament to the value of preparation and reflection. I hope her story encourages others as they approach this exciting milestone.

Enjoy!

1. Where did you retire from? 

Watertown Family Practice 

2. What are you most looking forward to in this new chapter of your life?

 Having more freedom with my time.

3. What was your “ah ha” moment or what I call “breakaway moment” that made you realize you could finally cross that retirement finish line?

 I didn't think I would be able to retire early. Ryan, YOU were my ah ha moment, and I thank you!!

4. What was the most challenging part of the transition into retirement for you, and how did you overcome it?

 Again, because of our many meetings, and getting all my questions answered, I had a smooth, fearless transition. Insurance was a big thing for me, and you had that covered too, with a wonderful person who helped me, or I should say, did it all for me!

5. Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your working years that you are particularly proud of?

 To many! Seeing patients getting better with mental health issues was a big thing for me. So awesome to be a part of that.

6. What advice would you give to those who are approaching retirement and feeling apprehensive about it?

 Talk to Ryan! Or someone else you trust, and go for it!

7. Is there a hobby or passion you are excited to pursue more now?

 I've been walking three times a day, biking, having time to enjoy my flowers, having full days in front of me that are for me. I have been crazy busy, don't get me wrong,  but it's not the stressful work things that are running through my mind.

8. Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently in your retirement planning process?

 Maybe putting even more in my 401k. I would have been meeting sooner with Ryan, early on, focusing on good investment for future.

9. What are some unexpected joys or challenges you’ve encountered since retiring?

 I have been babysitting for an infant a few hours a day, and that has brought a lot of joy to our family.  We lost our dog, Leo, heartbreaking, and adopted Loki,  10 month old, who will be turning one in a few days, and that has made our life very busy. Challenges is not much. God is so good to our family!!!

10. Were there any specific steps or actions that gave you the confidence to decide it was the right time to retire?

 I just had it on my heart that now was the time, 62 is a good age to retire,  I asked God, talked to my hubby, then Ryan, and it happened. 

11. Is there anything else you'd like to share about your retirement journey or advice for those approaching this milestone?

 Enjoy life. Be present.  Smell the different seasons, look at the sky and see the pictures God created. Keep busy, but keep in mind, you can finish that tomorrow because you have another day for you.

Thank you, Debbie, for sharing your story and inspiring others with your journey.

*Non-compensated client testimonial; may not be representative of all client experiences; no guarantee of future performance or success*