Oh No, Not the "R" Word!
It happens to all of us eventually—whether in our 50s, 60s, or 70s. We stop working and transition to a life we’ve been planning and saving for: Retirement.
For many, this shift can feel overwhelming. After years of a structured routine filled with meetings, deadlines, and tasks, the adjustment to a more relaxed life isn’t always smooth. Personally, one of the hardest changes for me has been the lack of a consistent routine. Months into retirement, I still find myself asking, What day is it? In my working days, the rhythm of Monday morning marketing meetings, Friday executive team calls, and countless other scheduled activities gave structure to my weeks. Without those markers, time feels…different.
Another big adjustment is the societal perception that comes with being "retired." In a culture that often ties identity to careers and job titles, transitioning from "employed" to "retired" can feel jarring. Too often, the word “retired” seems to carry the same weight as “unemployed,” as though retirement signals a loss of purpose rather than a well-earned milestone. In reality, retirement should be celebrated as a culmination of decades of hard work and meaningful contributions. And yet, when someone asks what I do, I find myself almost apologetically saying, “I’m retired.” It’s as if leaving the workforce forces us to the sidelines, disconnected from the daily interactions and camaraderie that once defined our professional lives. This isolation may explain why loneliness has become so prevalent among retirees and at epidemic levels.
No matter when you decide to retire, experts agree there are three key areas to focus on for a successful transition: finances, health, and lifestyle. While there’s no shortage of advice on saving wisely and staying physically healthy, creating a satisfying lifestyle is just as important. This means establishing new routines, nurturing a healthy social network, and staying mentally engaged through activities like taking classes, reading, or exploring hobbies.
It’s also important to understand and plan for the three stages of retirement life:
- The Go-Go Years: This is the most active stage of retirement, when energy levels are high and finances are often at their strongest. It’s the ideal time to tackle bucket-list adventures and enjoy activities that require stamina and enthusiasm.
- The Slow-Go Years: During this stage, physical and mental health may begin to slow you down. Healthcare expenses often increase, and long-haul travel may give way to shorter, more manageable trips. The focus shifts to balancing activity with rest while continuing to enjoy life.
- The No-Go Years: In this final stage, declining health and mobility may limit activities, and home-based pursuits become more common. Healthcare costs typically peak, but staying mentally active and engaged can contribute significantly to satisfaction and quality of life.
With thoughtful planning and an awareness of these stages, you can approach retirement with confidence. Embrace the opportunities it brings and wear the “retired” label with pride. You’ve earned it! Celebrate this new chapter—after all, retirement isn’t the end. It’s the start of a new adventure.
