Career Center - Spiritual/Reflection

When most people plan for retirement, they focus on the financial ramifications of leaving their job. Will I have enough money? How can I make my money last? These are very important questions to ask, but they are not the only questions.

Transitioning from working full-time into retirement requires some emotional preparation as well. Leaving a full-time job can make you question your identity and your self-worth. Most people look forward to retirement, unaware of the emotional and spiritual challenges it can bring. The run up to and the first year or so after retirement can be exciting and rewarding.

For the first time in years, retirees have the chance to travel, spend time with family and friends and pursue other interests they have always wanted to try. As the newness of retirement starts to fade, however, a feeling of loss can set in. A major benefit of pursuing a full-time career is the affirmation you receive from your accomplishments.

Meeting daily challenges breeds confidence and fulfillment that can be loss when you retire. Pursuing a second career is a great way to recapture the satisfaction of contributing to the workforce. More and more companies these days are beginning to recognize the added value of having older workers who are experienced and reliable consulting on special projects and working for them part-time.

Before transitioning into retirement, think about ways you can continue to enjoy the gratification of working in the next phase of your life. While retirement is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your accomplishments and enjoy relaxation, it can also be a time to pursue new endeavors in order to retain a sense of purpose.