When you think about retirement, do you picture all the free time you’ll have and the fun things you’ll do? Whether it’s 40 years away or 5, the more money you squirrel away now, the better.

People often put off retirement savings because they don’t understand the magic of compound interest — or they just don’t get the whole “sacrifice now, celebrate later” deal.

Here’s how to build your nest egg today:

• Get good advice. Many employee assistance programs (EAPs), credit unions, and nonprofits offer training in basic money management.

• Set it and forget it. Use automatic payroll deductions to fund your 401(k). Can’t stomach the whole 15%? Start with whatever gets you the full company match, and go from there. Invest more any time you get a raise — or pay off a debt.

• Walk 30 minutes/day… now. That’s right — exercise qualifies as an investment by helping prevent costly medical problems — like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Best of all, being fit means you’ll have the strength and stamina to have a blast spending all that money you saved.

What will you do this week to make your retirement dreams come true?