Share your insights or perspective on the financial matter presented in the input.

Why is retirement planning so commonly recommended?
I suggest that you think in terms of "financial independence" rather than retirement. You do not need to retire in the stereotypical sense of playing golf and moving to Florida.  If you reach a point where your "day job" does not need to pay your bills, you open up more options for what you can do. I am not saying to wait until retirement to do something you love. I am saying that lower salary requirements open up more options.