In the second half of adulthood, something often shifts within us. We find that as our interests and priorities change, our work doesn’t light us up the way it used to. I’ve heard colleagues time and again say something like “work hasn’t changed, I’ve changed.” But if you’re not ready to fully retire, you may not know what to do with this feeling. The good news is that there’s a solution.
Rather than leaving work behind entirely to fully retire in a traditional way, maybe we can “rewire” and refocus our energy in a new direction! I encourage you to shift your thinking from retirement as a monolithic phase of life—a 20- or 30-year time period – to viewing it in smaller, more flexible chunks of 3 to 5 years. What feels right now may shift in a few years—and that’s perfectly normal.
As a coach who helps others navigate this transition successfully, here are some additional thoughts about rewiring:
- Heed the call to find work that engages and satisfies you now. What’s your secret dream? What are you feeling called to at this stage in life? How do you want to contribute to your community or serve others?
- Rather than focus on what might be lost in this transition—status, structure, or a steady paycheck—start by asking, “What’s possible?” Make a curious list: What are you drawn to? What interests you, even if it feels completely new or unrelated to your previous career? Give yourself permission to explore without the pressure to commit.
- You are more than your job title. Your worth doesn’t diminish when your career slows down or ends. This next chapter is an opportunity to reclaim your identity beyond work—to connect with others, engage your mind, nurture your health, and contribute in new ways.
By planning for the next 3-5 years, remaining flexible and curious, you’ll find that this chapter is more fulfilling than you might have previously imagined.
Learn More: Why You May Want to ‘Rewire’ Instead of Retire by NextAvenue.org