Reframe

Retirement is probably one of the most significant career transitions we make.

Whether we continue working and contributing, slow down or stop is a big, very personal, decision and an even bigger transition. The perspective we’ve had about how to “live life” has probably been the same for a long time. Shifting to a new lifestyle can be challenging. If you’ve ever experienced a career break - by choice or circumstance - you’ll know that feeling of disorientation when a usual routine is disrupted and you’re in the liminal state of “what’s next?".

Today, we are living healthier, longer lives and likely to live another 20 years in a “retirement” phase of life. Most of us are not ready to stop creating and contributing. We have wisdom to share and a long list of things we’re curious about exploring.

How can we embrace and prepare for a time of life that’s full of new possibilities?

• Start thinking about it before you’re ready to make the change.

• Create a retirement plan that extends beyond financial preparedness.

• Embrace a growth mindset and reframe longevity in a positive and encouraging way.

• Share your wisdom as you keep learning new things.

• Take care of your(whole)self, emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically.

• Expand the community of people in your life, making new and strengthening old relationships.

• Attend to any outstanding “personal business” (such as, financial, health and estate tasks), so you have time to play and enjoy life more.

Retirement, however you choose to live it, is a time to question what you expect from life and what life expects from you; a time to be most truly and unabashedly yourself. Don’t miss it!