If you’re just starting your financial journey—maybe contributing to a 401(k), opening a Roth IRA, or buying your first index fund—it’s worth pausing to understand the sheer scale of the system you’re stepping into. Because you’re not just saving.

In 2025, only 1 in 10 Americans will retire with at least $1 million saved across their retirement accounts—401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, and savings. That’s not just a statistic. It’s a warning sign that most people are missing the wealth train entirely. You’re not lazy. You’re not indifferent. You might just be late to the station.

The allure of the stock market often begins with a single question: “What stock should I buy?” It’s a rite of passage—an exciting dive into the world of investing, often driven by brand loyalty, social media buzz, or a gut feeling. But while picking individual stocks might feel empowering, it’s not always the wisest first step.