More collective wisdom from these savers: Make savings automatic by having a portion of your pay go directly to a savings or retirement account; comparison-shop for everything, don't disdain small savings, and enjoy a simpler life.
"You'd be surprised even if it's just $10 or $20 at a time how much it grows," said Fike, a product analyst at an insurance company who turned 60 last month and is on track to be able to retire at 62. At the same time, 'it's important to emphasize we are not missing out on life," said Pope, who paid off his debt and invests for retirement in low-cost diversified mutual funds.
Pope and Fike became involved with America Saves groups in their states. Under a Military Spouse Financial Fellowship program, Christy Schrock became an accredited financial counselor at Fort Campbell. For saver success stories of military personnel, check out www.MilitarySaves.org.