Life After Retirement: Transitioning to the Next Phase

We work for years of our lives looking forward to the day we can retire. There are images in our mind about what that life will look like. When that day finally comes, we are so ecstatic imagining a great vacation that never ends. What could be better!

The first few months we feel free to do whatever we want, whenever we want and there's nothing better. But what happens after the newness wears off. One day begins and ends just like the one before. If we are lucky, we are financially strong, which eases any thoughts you may have had about being able to afford retirement. What we didn't expect to happen is losing our identity or purpose in life. Most Americans identify by what they do for a living. When meeting someone for the first time, one of the first questions we are asked is "what do you do?" Many times we are judged by what are chosen occupation is. When we retire, we tend to feel at a loss for answering that question.

Retirement is a time of change/transition in our lives. It could be looked at as re-inventing yourself for the next chapter in life. Of course, health plays a big part in what retirement looks like for each individual. For some, retirement is not a choice. In this article, we will be making some assumptions to create a successful retirement plan. One of those assumptions will be that the individual we are planning for is in good health without any physical restrictions. We will be focusing on emotional well-being for today's discussion.

Let's first list the Core Adjustment Hurdles:

• The loss of identity
• The void of a routine schedule
• Disenchantment phase

We discussed the identity loss earlier. Not knowing who we are any more. Losing the job title that defined us and gave us social standing. One way of an actionable step is to find a replacement role. I, myself, chose to use my love of animals to become part of a therapy dog team with my dog, Noodles. We both got certified and now volunteer with Therapy Dogs United, LLC, a non-profit organization. We visit the local schools and hospital. Maybe for you it might be getting part-time work in a field that interests you. It's about taking action to create what will give you enjoyment and make you feel good about yourself.

The second actionable step is about taking control back of your time. Sometimes in retirement the days can go by quickly without realizing it. Your left asking yourself "What did I even do all day?" Build a schedule where you set a consistent morning wake time and plan at least one specific task or adventure for the day.

Another area to focus on that plays a major part in how we view retirement is the social aspect of it. The connections with peers is an important part of life and feeling happy. Work is a large part of our social connection on a daily basis. Once the work environment is eliminated, so are the people we socialize with during the work day. A way to avoid feeling lonely or isolated, particularly if you live alone, is to seek out local community groups or peer support networks to share the transition experience. Your local senior center is a great resource for many interactions from taking a workshop, to participating in exercise classes, or even field trips as a group.

Balance couple dynamic. If you have a partner, talk openly about expectations for shared space vs. independent time so you don't crowd or resent each other over time. In general, retirement is a time to prepare for in order to guide you into a smooth transition for you and your partner. What is one small step you could take this week to make your retirement feel meaningful?  I'd love for you to think about that question as you begin creating your next chapter.  What is one small step you could take this week to make your retirement feel more meaningful?  I'd love for you to think about that question as you begin creating your next chapter.