Getting Ready for Retirement
Retirement is on the horizon, and while that’s exciting, it can also feel a bit... uncertain. You’ve spent years—decades, really—immersed in your career. Now, as you start winding down, it’s natural to wonder what will replace all the intellectual challenges and sense of purpose that your job gave you.
For many professionals—doctors, lawyers, teachers, business leaders, and others—work has been more than just a job. It’s been a huge part of your life, your identity, and where you’ve found recognition and respect. So, stepping away? Yeah, it can feel like a big deal.
Here’s something you might have noticed: a lot of people in demanding careers wait as long as possible to retire. Some don’t retire until they absolutely have to. And that’s not just because they love what they do (although that’s often part of it). It’s also because their work is such a core part of who they are. Walking away can feel like losing a piece of themselves.
It’s totally understandable. After 30 or more years of doing something that required advanced degrees, constant problem-solving, and probably a lot of travel, it’s not easy to suddenly hit “stop.” That’s why the advice to “retire to something, not from something” gets thrown around so much. But let’s be honest—coming up with that “something” can feel overwhelming.
So, how do you figure out what to do with your newfound freedom? It might help to take a step back and reconnect with what really matters to you. What have you always loved but didn’t have time for? What causes are close to your heart? Once you’re not tied to a 9-to-5 (or 7-to-6) schedule, you’ll have the time to explore those passions.
Maybe you’ve always thought about mentoring younger professionals. Or you’ve wanted to get involved in a non-profit, but your career took up all your energy. Some people choose to take on part-time work or consulting roles just to stay sharp and connected but without the full-time commitment.
Think about things like:
What excites you? Whether it’s mentoring or teaching, this could be your time to give back and share what you’ve learned.
What matters to you? Getting involved in community work or volunteering can be incredibly fulfilling.
What keeps you mentally engaged? Whether you pick up a new hobby, start writing, or dive into something completely different, keeping your brain active is key.
When it comes down to it, retirement is a new chapter. You’re not leaving behind everything you’ve worked for—you’re just reshaping it to suit this stage of your life. Think of it as an opportunity to create something fresh and meaningful.
You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Take your time, try new things, and enjoy the freedom to explore whatever feels right. The next adventure will be yours to design.