[onewhippedpuppy]

So I think what you're finding is that there's no secret. Figure out what lifestyle you want to lead in retirement, what that will cost, and what you need to the bank to make that happen. If you've got the money already then life is good! If you have some work to do, start aggressively saving towards the appropriate target. The secret, if there is one, is to save enough money to support your desired lifestyle. That's all there is to it. Unfortunately for most Americans that approach takes hard work and sacrifice, something many of us aren't very keen on. I could have twice the house or a some awesome toys with the cash that my wife and I are saving towards retirement, but that's not a very good long term plan.