Start investing early. For example, if you invest $15k/yr for 40 years and assume a 7% annual return (7% is easily doable) you'll have about $3.2 million at retirement. I understand that saving $15k when you first start working may be difficult, but it gives you something to shoot for. You can make up for shortfalls in your later years. I use a Fidelity managed fund and have easily exceeded the 7% return goal even in the worst of financial times.