Entering ‘the 4th quarter of our life’ is a big move into unknown terrain.
That’s why I love learning about theories, strategies, and tools that can help us transition into retirement successfully.
And, yes, many external resources (books, blogs, podcasts, YouTube videos, etc.) are available that offer information and advice for a smooth transition into retirement.
However, I suggest you start preparing for the next phase of your life with some internal research before you search for external ideas and recommendations.
Kickstart your retirement journey by reflecting on crucial questions.
Questions like these:
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- Your Identity: Who are you right now? What are the essential parts of your current identity? – Which of these parts will you take along into your retirement? What do you need/want to change about the person you are right now? What are the essential parts of your new identity?
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- Your Purpose: What are your current values, beliefs, and the things you stand and fight for? – What are the topics, goals, passions and interests you want to focus on in future? How do you want to (re-)define the meaning of (your) life?
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- Your Relationships: What does your social network look like just now? Who are the important people in your life? What do you appreciate in your relationships, and what frustrates you? – Who will naturally drop out of your contact list? Who do you want to add? Which relationships do you want to change or intensify?