For many people, the transition from working life to retirement is a significant stage in life that is often associated with mixed feelings, making this phase a challenge: While some see retirement as an opportunity for new freedom and adventure, others find this change challenging and a source of stress. Here are some aspects that can be associated with the transition to the new stage of life:
Dealing with change: Moving into a new phase of life can be emotionally stressful. There may be sadness about the years that have already passed or anxiety about the future.
This phase is often accompanied by fears about your own health or the health of your partner. If you have been putting things off until retirement for many years - for example, extended trips together, a shared hobby - it may no longer be so easy to realize this because the physical conditions are no longer there, or perhaps because the relationship no longer exists.
The absence of a direct relationship partner can be compounded by the lack of a circle of friends. Once the children have left home and there is no more daily contact and small talk with colleagues, many people feel lonely.
Many people, especially those in higher positions where they had responsibility and their expertise was requested and valued on a daily basis, have identified with their work to such an extent that the sudden loss creates a vacuum. You fall into a hole. This is accompanied by a lack of hobbies or other activities - if there are no interests, it can be difficult to have a positive retirement. This can lead to boredom and dissatisfaction. This is all the more true if those closest to you are not yet retired. The loss of daily routine should not be underestimated either. There is a difference between wanting to stay in bed longer on Monday mornings instead of going to work or knowing that no one is waiting for you or that you won't be missed if you don't show up.
And this is often accompanied by financial worries. You now have a lot of time (again), but not the money to learn the hobbies or go on the trips that you used to have money for but no time for thanks to your income.
The new phase of life can feel like a sidetrack. A standstill, especially as an expatriate who is used to constantly adapting to new dynamics and new challenges.
Conclusion:
These are just some of the aspects that can face people who are ending their active working life and retiring. It is a complex process that can be associated with various challenges. However, it is possible to actively tackle these issues and experience retirement as a new and enriching phase of life.
It is important to take countermeasures here so that the new life situation is not perceived as stressful, but as enriching. It is important to create new routines, discover new things about yourself, develop skills and hobbies.
Coaching can be very helpful here, as friends and family are often too close to the situation and often at their breaking point. With the help of the coach, solutions can be developed, e.g. in creating a new daily structure, questioning thought patterns, encouraging the development of new contacts. It is a vital process that can take a few months. So – embrace retirement without fear.
If you would like to be coached on your individual path to make this phase in your life easier, please do not hesitate to contact me.
photo / source: Brno; own