Reframing Retirement: Focus on Fulfillment

Many individuals work tirelessly to build their wealth over the years. As retirement approaches, the focus often shifts from accumulating wealth to finding ways to truly enjoy it. Why is this so important?  Studies show  that depression rates among retirees are higher than those of the overall older adult population. Several factors contribute to this trend: identity and self-worth are often tied to careers, social networks can diminish, and the structure of daily life changes.

When discussing retirement transitions with clients, it’s common to encounter late-career professionals who say their current roles don’t always match earlier expectations. For example, senior leaders sometimes share that positions once seen as prestigious can feel less fulfilling than imagined. This often sparks deeper questions about purpose and satisfaction, especially as their career journey comes to a close.

Finding fulfillment post-career requires intentional planning and effort. To get started, a valuable exercise involves considering what life in retirement will look like — both broadly and in detail. Thought-provoking questions like  what will you do on a quiet Tuesday afternoon or a Thursday morning?  And w ho will you spend time with?  can provide clarity. Reflecting on these aspects early can highlight what’s truly important.

To help with this exercise, Focus Partners Wealth Advisor Susan Strasbaugh, who specializes in retirement transition planning, created a Retirement Workbook that individuals can download and complete privately to contemplate their vision for life in retirement. The questions are centered around the non-financial aspects of retirement, and although some may be challenging to think about, consider this: After years of a structured work life, retirement offers a unique opportunity to decide what truly matters to you. The first step is to explore your core values. It’s not just about what you do — it’s about who you are becoming and how you choose to shape this enriching chapter of life.

People can easily become emotional when it comes to managing their money, which is why it can help to consult a credentialed and compassionate financial advisor. Professional support enables retirees to redirect their focus on living life rather than obsessing over market fluctuations or portfolio balances. Instead, they prioritize experiences like traveling, nurturing relationships, or pursuing passions, using their resources to create lasting memories.

Those who dwell on past achievements or lament what’s lost often find themselves stuck. In contrast, the happiest retirees are eager to embrace the present, whether it’s by learning a new skill, engaging in creative hobbies, or simply enjoying the moment. Always been curious about how to make limoncello or homemade pizza dough? Now’s the time to do it!

Many retirees find fulfillment by establishing and following a personal mantra, such as,  “If it doesn’t make me healthy, wealthy, or wise, I let it go.”  Others focus on giving back, dedicating time and resources to causes that align with their values.

For many, legacy is not just about passing on financial wealth but also sharing values and lessons with the next generation. Discussing how time, talent, and resources can shape a better future often brings a deep sense of purpose.

Of these, the pursuit of legacy and philanthropy often delivers the greatest sense of fulfillment. Whether it’s giving back, healing old wounds, or shaping a narrative for future generations, these efforts tend to create meaningful connections and joy. Some also see it as a chance to write their own history.

Ultimately, fulfillment in retirement isn’t about simply passing time — it’s about designing a life filled with purpose and connection. Transitioning from a mindset of achievement to one of enjoyment and contribution requires deliberate effort but can lead to a deeply rewarding second chapter.

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