The Reality of a 401(k) Plan

The reality of 401K comes down to a few simple points. First, it's not a guarantee.

It's more like a long road trip; market decides the weather, and you don't control

every turn. Second, your money is managed through asset allocation, similar to putting

your savings on autopilot and trusting the system to adjust along the way. Third,

fees are like a slow leak in a tire; barely noticeable year to year, but significant

over decades. Fourth, inflation quietly changes what your money can actually

buy in the future. Employer matches help, but they don't change the road.

That's why two people following the same 401K plan can still end up in very different places.