Sarah Wells: How to make superannuation your BFF at every stage of life to afford a fabulous retirement

Let’s face it — superannuation doesn’t exactly scream excitement.

It’s that thing you know you should care about but push to the backburner, somewhere between sorting out your health insurance and finally organising your closet.

But what if I told you that super isn’t just a snooze-worthy necessity? What if, instead, you could see your super as your best friend — the one who’s been there for you through every milestone, every high, every low, and all the fabulous in-betweens?

The key to turning your super into your ultimate BFF lies in the art of engagement.

That’s right honey — it’s time to stop treating your super like that ex you ghosted and start nurturing it like the lifelong companion it was meant to be.

So, let’s take a walk down memory lane and see how being more engaged with your super at key life stages — for example 21, 35, 50 and 65 — can transform your future from “meh” to “magnifique”.

The flirtation stage: 21 and fabulous

At 21, you’re probably not thinking about retirement.

You’re too busy living your best life, graduating, landing that first job, and maybe even splurging on your first designer handbag. But darling, this is exactly the time to start flirting with your superannuation. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a relationship that’s going to pay off big time in the future.

Here’s the secret — even the smallest contributions can grow into something fabulous over time, thanks to the magic of compounding.

So, while you’re out there building your career, take a moment to start engaging with your super. Pick a fund that aligns with your values (ethical investments, anyone?) and start contributing just a little extra from your pay packet. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

The commitment phase: 35 and thriving

By 35, you’ve moved past the flings and are deep into a committed relationship — with your career, your family and yes, your finances.

This is the time to really get serious about your super. You’ve got responsibilities now — mortgages, maybe kids and all the fabulous life moments in between — but that doesn’t mean your super should take a back seat.

Now’s the time to check in on your super’s performance. Is it keeping up with your life goals? Are the fees fair, or are you being taken for a ride? It’s also a great time to consolidate your super accounts. Who needs the drama of multiple funds when you can streamline your super and maximise your returns?

And if you haven’t been making extra contributions, consider upping the ante. Think of it as an investment in your future fabulousness.

The redefining moment: 50 and fearless

Fifty is the new fabulous, and retirement is no longer some far-off fantasy — it’s right around the corner.

This is when you need to take your relationship with super to the next level. It’s time to redefine what your retirement is going to look like and make sure your super is ready to support that vision.

First things first: Are you on track? If not, it’s time to double down on contributions.

You’ve got a decade or so left to supercharge your super, so take advantage of salary sacrifice options or make catch-up contributions.

And don’t forget to revisit your investment strategy: Are you still comfortable with a bit of risk, or is it time to play it safe?

This is your chance to ensure your super is ready to give you the retirement you deserve, full of travel, luxury and a little bit of mischief.

The forever stage: 65 and glorious

Ah, 65. You’ve made it, and now it’s time to sit back, relax and let your super do what it was always meant to do — take care of you.

But even in retirement, you’ve still got to stay engaged. This is when your super becomes your sugar daddy, funding your fabulous lifestyle as you enjoy the fruits of all those years of hard work.

The trick here is to manage your withdrawals wisely. You don’t want to blow through your super too quickly and end up pinching pennies. Instead, think of your super as your forever partner — one who’s going to be with you through thick and thin, ensuring you live your golden years in style.

Whether it’s sipping cocktails on a beach or spoiling your grandkids, your super is there to make sure you can do it all without a care in the world.

Why super is the ultimate BFF

Let’s get real. Superannuation isn’t just a financial obligation, it’s a lifelong relationship.

And like any good relationship, it takes work, attention and a little bit of love to keep it thriving. By staying engaged with your super at every milestone, you’re not just setting yourself up for a comfortable retirement; you’re ensuring that your golden years are as fabulous as you are.

The truth is our super system has its flaws, especially when it comes to ensuring everyone has enough to live on in retirement. But by treating your super like your best friend, checking in regularly and making the right moves at the right times, you can turn those potential flaws into opportunities for success.

So, darling, don’t ignore your super. Embrace it, love it and let it be a fabulously supportive BFF. Because when you take care of your super, it will take care of you — today, tomorrow and all the way through to forever.

Sarah Wells is a Perth-based money and finance expert