Retirement Advisor Discusses: How Following Duty Outweighs Personal Preference in Retirement Years

In the twilight of their careers, many individuals find themselves adrift, unsure of their place in the world. Retirement, once seen as a well-deserved break, can often feel vacuous without a sense of purpose. But what if retirement could be a launchpad for work that truly matters?

According to Dr. Richard Himmer, author of "Your Encore Years: The Psychology of Retirement" and host of the podcast "How Not to Retire", the key to a fulfilling retirement lies in finding one's purpose. Dr. Himmer suggests asking ourselves questions such as "What energizes me?", "Who can I help?", "What unfinished work matters to me?", and "What principles do I want to live by?".

The happiness of retirees, as discovered by journalist John Leland, lies in their connections to people, purpose, and something larger than themselves. Sister Jean, the 100-year-old chaplain for Loyola Chicago's basketball team, is a shining example of this, continuing to invest in relationships, encouragement, and service.

Aristotle's ancient insight still rings true: "True freedom is the ability to act well, not merely to act." The article suggests that freedom without purpose is just drifting, while freedom with purpose, grounded in personal values and principles, is where life becomes rich. It's about filling one's calendar with commitments that reflect one's deepest values, not just busy activities.

The article also emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between "should" and "ought". "Should" comes from societal expectations, peer pressure, or long-held routines, while "ought" refers to personal values and principles. The real question isn't "What do I want right now?", but "What do I want most? Am I willing to discipline my lesser wants in service of my greater ones?"

If you're seeking professional guidance, the Kiplinger Building Wealth program selects financial advisers and business owners worldwide to share retirement, estate planning, and tax strategies. These experts, who never pay for inclusion, include professional wealth managers, fiduciary financial planners, CPAs, and lawyers, many of whom hold certifications such as CFP®, ChFC®, IAR, AIF®, CDFA®.

However, unstructured freedom can feel like freefall and lead to dissatisfaction or depression. The article warns against viewing retirement as an extended vacation, and encourages retirees to see it as an opportunity to embark on a journey of purpose and self-discovery.

In conclusion, finding purpose in retirement is not just about finding something to do, but about finding something that aligns with your deepest values and principles. It's about creating, contributing, and connecting, not just consuming. So, take a moment to reflect, ask yourself the right questions, and embark on a journey towards true freedom.

Retirement Advisor Discusses: How Following Duty Outweighs Personal Preference in Retirement Years