Recent research highlights a growing confidence gap among retirement plan participants, with many unsure whether their current savings strategies will support long-term income needs. Target-date funds remain widely used in workplace plans and are often associated with higher confidence levels due to their automated allocation and glide path structure. However, the study suggests that investment simplicity alone does not guarantee readiness. Contribution rates, income planning, and understanding how savings convert into retirement cash flow all play critical roles. Participants who combined disciplined contributions with a clear view of future income needs reported greater confidence than those relying solely on default investment options. The findings reinforce the importance of integrating investment strategy with income planning rather than treating them as separate decisions.