Retirement is often seen as the golden years of life, a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of decades of hard work. However, the traditional concept of retirement—ceasing work entirely and living a life of leisure—may not be fulfilling for everyone. As we approach this significant life transition, it’s crucial to reimagine what retirement means, especially through the lens of a 100+ year life, and explore non-traditional options that can lead to a more purposeful and enriched life.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the evolving definition of retirement, the benefits of continuing to work in some capacity, and how to plan for a retirement that is not just financially secure but also holistically fulfilling. Whether you are 5 to 10 years away from retiring or just beginning to contemplate it, understanding these aspects will help you make informed decisions for a rewarding future.
The Evolving Definition of Retirement
The traditional view of retirement as a complete withdrawal from the workforce is becoming outdated. Today, many pre-retirees are considering a more dynamic approach, where retirement is not an end but a transition into a new chapter of life. This modern perspective emphasises the importance of staying active, engaged, and purposeful, particularly when considering the potential for a 100+ year life.
One key to a successful retirement is to think about it in holistic terms. Beyond financial security, what are your aspirations for personal growth, intellectual stimulation, and social connections? Retirement should be about more than just having enough money—it should be about creating a fulfilling and inspiring life. As your financial guide, we aim to support you in transitioning to this new chapter, not your final chapter.
The Benefits of Working During Retirement
While financial stability remains a cornerstone of retirement planning, many retirees find that the psychological and existential benefits of continuing to work far outweigh the monetary gains. Here are some key benefits:
1. Psychological and Existential Payoffs: Working can provide a sense of purpose and identity, which is essential for psychological well-being. It helps retirees stay connected to their communities and maintain a routine.
2. Intellectual Stimulation: Engaging in intellectually challenging activities keeps the brain active and healthy, reducing the risk of cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s and dementia research highlights the power of leading an intellectually challenging life, especially as we age.
3. Social and Creative Engagement: Work often provides opportunities for social interaction and creative expression, which are crucial for emotional health. Maintaining relationships and finding new ways to express creativity are vital for a fulfilled life.
4. Physical Health and Energy: Staying active through work can help maintain physical health and energy levels, contributing to a higher quality of life.
Assessing Your Retirement Goals
To create a retirement plan that works for you, start by asking yourself what you truly want to retire from and what you want to continue. Here are some questions to consider:
- What aspects of your current work are you eager to leave behind?
- What elements of your job do you find most fulfilling and energising?
- How can you incorporate these fulfilling aspects into your retirement plan?
Remember, the word “retire” means to withdraw. While it may be tempting to withdraw from a challenging environment, it’s important to consider what you still want to engage with. Do you want to withdraw from the challenge of solving problems, or from colleagues you’ve developed relationships with over many years?
Finding Your “Play-Check”
A “play-check” is when you get paid to do something you love. This concept can be a guiding principle for planning a fulfilling retirement. Here are some benchmarks to consider to determine if you are on the path to achieving a “play-check”:
- Do your natural talents and abilities shine through your work?
- Do you feel enthusiastic and energised by your activities?
- Do you enjoy the people you work with and feel that your work helps you grow intellectually and personally?
- Does your work bring benefit to others?
- Do you have a sense of serenity regarding your work?
By identifying these benchmarks, you can integrate meaningful work into your retirement plan and ensure that you remain engaged and fulfilled. Many retirees find themselves returning to work because they miss these essential aspects of their professional life.
Reimagine Your Retirement
Reimagining retirement is about more than just financial planning; it’s about envisioning a life that is intellectually stimulating, socially engaging, and personally fulfilling. By considering the non-traditional options and benefits of continuing to work, you can create a retirement that truly inspires you.
To explore more about living an inspired retirement, download our eBook “How To Live an Inspired Retirement” and contact us to inquire about our retirement coaching tools. Take our Wealth Check to see find out how clear your vision of your retirement or contact Real Life Financial Planning for more information on our comprehensive retirement planning services.
General Advice Disclaimer Please note, the information provided herein is general in nature and does not consider your personal circumstances. It is not intended as legal, tax, or personal advice. Always seek personalised financial advice to ensure your estate planning aligns with your unique situation and goals