What do you imagine your retirement years to look like? Have you set personal goals for yourself? The amount of income you receive in retirement will impact the type of lifestyle you are able to sustain.

A 2005 WorkTrends survey* showed that nearly 7 in 10 workers say they plan to work in some capacity in their retirement years. Nearly a third (27%) said they would work part-time for interest or enjoyment, 18% said they would work part-time for needed income, 15% would go into business for themselves, and 6% would work "full-time doing something else." 54% said that economic need is the one major factor why they work.

• Successful Retirees
  The most successful retirees live full and active lives because they had the foresight to save diligently for retirement and they choose to remain actively involved in their communities and vocations throughout their retirement. The ability to pursue new opportunities in retirement depends upon what you're doing now to make it happen. Keep in mind the type of retirement you want to experience and focus on what you're doing now to build a retirement savings plan.

• Review Your Situation
  What kinds of personal investments do you have? Have you established an IRA and are you making the maximum contribution allowed? If you're still working, think critically about your company's 401(k) plan. Are you contributing as much as you can? You may also need to establish a more aggressive personal savings and investment program.

Retirement may bring with it a little fear and anxiety. With proper planning you can enjoy some of the best years of your life.