Hilton Worldwide Holdings employees should take Jay Zigmont’s message to heart by embracing a retirement centered on personal fulfillment rather than obligatory inheritance, says Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement, who emphasizes the importance of aligning financial plans with values that bring meaning and joy in the present.
Hilton Worldwide Holdings employees should recall that true financial success isn't just about preserving wealth for others. As noted by Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement, who echoes Jay Zigmont's message, it's about using that wealth to create a fulfilling, experience-rich retirement that honors the life you've worked so hard to build.
In this article, we will discuss:
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Why Jay Zigmont challenges the traditional notion of leaving large inheritances.
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How Hilton Worldwide Holdings employees can prioritize personal happiness over leaving a financial legacy.
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The growing trend of valuing meaningful experiences over wealth transfer in retirement.
Jay Zigmont, a licensed financial planner and author, challenges traditional views on inheritance and wealth accumulation when it comes to financial management. In an episode of Morningstar's podcast, The Long View, Zigmont introduced a persuasive perspective that questions the merit of leaving sizable inheritances, particularly under strained family conditions. Instead, he emphasizes using accumulated wealth to improve one's own life rather than as a means to mend relationships or to gain affection.
In his book The Childfree Guide to Life and Money, Zigmont initially targeted childless individuals. Now, his insights extend to Hilton Worldwide Holdings employees and others who may have heirs less appreciative of their efforts to amass wealth. He critiques the traditional financial planning approach that emphasizes leaving a monetary legacy for such heirs as overly idealistic.
Zigmont promotes prioritizing personal happiness over leaving financial legacies. He encourages spending on activities that bring joy, freedom, and comfort, and supporting those who genuinely value such generosity. His clear message: Hilton Worldwide Holdings employees who have spent years building their wealth should feel entitled to enjoy their earnings without the obligation of leaving an inheritance, particularly to those who may seem indifferent or ungrateful.
Zigmont's philosophy prompts a reevaluation of one's financial planning objectives. He suggests using wealth to improve personal living standards rather than repairing broken relationships or leaving a financial legacy for future generations. Ultimately, he proposes that a life rich in satisfaction and meaningful experiences is the most valuable legacy one can leave.
Research by the National Endowment for Financial Education reveals that about 70% of seniors who focused on enriching personal experiences reported higher satisfaction in retirement compared to those who concentrated on wealth transfer. This correlation underscores the significance of personal fulfillment in one's later years. The emerging trend of prioritizing living fully over leaving inheritances is gaining traction, suggesting a shift towards more rewarding post-career lives.
Explore Jay Zigmont's innovative financial approach, which advocates for relishing life's simple pleasures rather than accumulating wealth for ungrateful heirs. Discover how you, as a Hilton Worldwide Holdings employee, can redefine your retirement years by focusing more on meaningful experiences and personal satisfaction. Understand why an inheritance is not mandatory and learn the benefits of investing wisely in what truly enriches your life.
Consider the wealth you've accumulated like a beautiful, expansive garden you've nurtured over many years. You could open the gates for garden parties, enjoying the colors, fragrances, and company of those who truly appreciate the garden's splendor, or you could keep the gates closed, preserving every bloom for future generations who may not value its beauty. Zigmont's advice leans towards the former: rather than saving everything for successors who may not recognize the effort and love invested, use your resources to enhance your life now and create joyful memories. This approach allows your golden years to flourish beautifully, filled with cherished moments and personal happiness.
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Sources:
1. Business Insider. Spend More to Avoid Dying Rich If You Don’t Have Kids, Says This Financial Guru. Business Insider , 5 Apr. 2025.
2. Business Insider. I Asked 200 Retirees for Their Best Advice. The Biggest Tip Had Nothing to Do with Money. Business Insider , 6 Apr. 2025.
3. Morningstar Podcast Team. Dr. Jay Zigmont: Handling Your Finances When You Don’t Have Kids. Morningstar , 2 Apr. 2025.
4. Zigmont, Jay, PhD, MBA, CFP®. The Childfree Guide to Life and Money: Make Your Finances Simple So Your Life Without Kids Can Be Amazing . The American College, 31 Dec. 2024.
5. Fortune. Retirement Is Becoming Just the 'Third Half' of Life. Here Are the 4 Key Mindsets We've Identified Among the New Generation of Retirees. Fortune , 7 Mar. 2024.
How does Hilton's retirement plan support employees as they transition into retirement, and what specific features or benefits does Hilton offer to ensure a smooth and financially secure retirement?
Hilton's retirement plan provides comprehensive support to employees transitioning into retirement by offering a mix of defined contribution plans and 401(k) plans. These plans include employer matching contributions to help employees save for retirement. Hilton also emphasizes financial education and tools to help employees manage their retirement savings effectively, aiming to ensure a smooth transition and long-term financial security.
What eligibility criteria must employees meet to participate in Hilton's retirement plan, and how do these criteria differ for various employee classifications such as full-time, part-time, and management positions at Hilton?
Eligibility criteria for Hilton's retirement plan vary depending on the employee classification. Full-time employees are typically eligible for the 401(k) plan after a defined waiting period, often based on service tenure. Part-time employees and those in management positions may have different eligibility thresholds or contribution limits, reflecting their specific job classifications and employment status.
Can you provide an overview of the investment options available within Hilton's retirement savings plan, and how do these options cater to employees with varying risk tolerances and investment strategies?
Investment options within Hilton's retirement savings plan are designed to cater to employees with varying risk tolerances and investment strategies. The plan typically includes a range of mutual funds, including conservative, moderate, and aggressive portfolios, allowing employees to customize their investments based on their financial goals and risk preferences.
How does Hilton's retirement plan handle the issue of vesting, and what are the implications for employees who leave the company before they are fully vested in their retirement benefits?
Vesting in Hilton's retirement plan ensures that employees gradually earn rights to employer contributions. If an employee leaves the company before being fully vested, they may forfeit a portion of these contributions. The vesting schedule incentivizes long-term employment, and typically, employees are fully vested after a set number of years.
In terms of healthcare benefits during retirement, what assistance does Hilton provide to retirees, and how do these benefits integrate with Medicare or other health plans?
Healthcare benefits during retirement at Hilton often include assistance through retiree health insurance plans, which may integrate with Medicare once employees reach eligibility age. These benefits help retirees cover healthcare costs that Medicare may not fully cover, ensuring continued access to necessary medical care.
What resources does Hilton offer to assist employees in understanding their pension and retirement benefits, and are there any education programs or seminars available to help employees plan for retirement?
Resources for retirement planning at Hilton include educational programs, online tools, and seminars that help employees understand their pension and retirement benefits. Hilton also offers access to retirement planning professionals to assist employees in making informed decisions about their financial futures.
How does Hilton communicate changes or updates to the retirement plan, and what channels are available for employees to stay informed about their benefits as they approach retirement?
Communication about changes to Hilton's retirement plan is conducted through multiple channels, including internal newsletters, online employee portals, and direct email notifications. Employees are encouraged to regularly check these platforms to stay updated on any modifications to their benefits as they approach retirement.
Can you elaborate on how Hilton's retirement benefits compare to industry standards, and what measures are taken to ensure that Hilton remains competitive in attracting and retaining talent?
Hilton's retirement benefits are competitive within the hospitality industry, with generous employer contributions, a variety of investment options, and robust healthcare support for retirees. These benefits help Hilton attract and retain top talent by offering financial security and comprehensive retirement support.
How can employees reach out to Hilton's HR department or benefits specialists for more information regarding their retirement options, and what is the best way for them to initiate this contact?
Employees can contact Hilton's HR department or benefits specialists directly through the company's internal communication channels, such as email or phone support, to inquire about retirement options. Initiating contact with HR allows employees to receive personalized guidance on their retirement benefits and planning.
What role do financial advisors or retirement planning professionals play in guiding Hilton employees through their retirement planning process, and how accessible are these resources to staff at various levels within the company?
Financial advisors and retirement planning professionals are accessible to Hilton employees at all levels, providing expert guidance on managing retirement savings. These resources are available through Hilton's partnership with third-party financial planning services, ensuring that employees can develop personalized retirement strategies.