Retirement

We can dream about retirement through our working life.

What is it like as a phase of life when we get there?

A well deserved rest. A chance to go on holiday. Family time.

These are some of the things people think about. I wonder though if once you've had a holiday and enjoyed some down time, can it feel like something is missing?

Prioritisation

Sure there's plenty to do, but how to decide? You've transitioned from a phase of life where you fitted things like hobbies, socialising, exercise, life admin and housework around your work and other committments. In a practical sense you can choose how to spend your days. Which of your activities do you want to spend most time on? Which of your committments and responsbilities are compulsory, and what can you let go of?

Deciding what is really important amongst these things can really help. What brings you joy, or a feeling of reward?

Looking at your values can help you prioritise what you spend your time on, and what new things to bring in.

Perspective

What have you always wondered about but never found the time? What do you want to look back on with fondness at the end of your life? We can dismiss our dreams when we're in the thick of it with work or a young family. In retirement there is a sense of 'if not now, then when?' Spending some time goal setting and putting some clarity and specificity around your aims can bring them to life.

You may still feel a tendancy to dismiss some of your dreams. Sometimes there is a real obstacle to tackle, and sometimes it's about examining your thought patterns to see whether they are holding you back.

Identity

Your identity has been linked to your career for a large part of your life, so you would be forgiven for feeling a little lost, even if you're happy to move on. Having some space to acknowlege that is important. Celebrate your achievements and pick out which of your strengths and skills got you this far in life. There is a new identity waiting for you and by investing in yourself you can feel empowered to find it.

Coaching

You can do some of this thinking on your own and hopefully find some benefit. By speaking with a coach you can get there quicker and benefit from someone listening attentively to you, and reflecting back your thoughts. We would look at your values, your beliefs, your goals and your unique personality and take steps towards your best retirement life.

Join the facebook group for retirees here: Live your best retirement life

For a free chat with me about 1:1 coaching, book here