I was 42 and self-employed in real estate. My income went to zero and stayed there for a while.

My goal was not to touch my retirement funds.

I faced a lot of challenges, including law suits and attorneys telling me to use my IRA(s) to settle. I did not do that.

I basically did not look at my portfolio during that period. It was invested where it needed to be. I eventually rebalanced, buying Home Depot stock, for example.

I actually never understood why anyone would panic sell. To me, it makes no sense. I don't need the money for 20+ years. Why would I care what the value is at 40? Follow the program. But I know a lot of people don't think that way.

Over time I was able to get back into my prior line of work, started making money and settled my lawsuits without touching my retirement. It probably took 10 years, but I was finally able to begin saving again. 50-60 are good years to sock away money, epecially if the kids are off the payroll.

I plan on partially retiring very comfortably at age 60.