Navigating The Transition From A Rewarding Career

Hello!

Hope You have been doing well -and- continue to enjoy your days.

Over the past 6 weeks I have been taking a course to complete and obtain a retirement life coaching certification.

This was a challenge I took on as one of my continuing learning goals. As I have written in past articles, one of the motivating factors for us as we transition to retirement is to continue to seek out and pursue our learning opportunities…This could also include enrolling in college courses in an ‘audit’ capacity, (so not to be concerned about grades… rather, be consumed with the learning -and- being around energetic students!) -btw- I did pass the final exam and waiting on the results of my submitted client case studies to find out if I completed the certification requirements.

The coaching program content addressed research-based materials, concepts and case studies. One such area of concentration was around ‘Identity Adjustment’ and the many theories supporting the process of adjustment.

When we step into retirement, many often picture an endless holiday — or, conversely, a slow slide into boredom. The real surprise is that research consistency shows that happiness, on average, increases after leaving full-time work.

Of course, this isn’t true for everyone. The first months can be messy — the sudden loss of structure, the quiet mornings, the identity shift. I’ve been there myself. After decades in demanding roles, I expected instant peace. Instead, I found myself restless and anxious, not quite sure who I was without my work identity.

But as the months unfolded, something unexpected happened. I started to exhale. I began sleeping better, relaxing, (although Denise would tell You I’m still not relaxing – lol), and taking note of enjoying the simple pleasures again — slow starts to the morning, our walks on the Fort trails, workouts, and time working around the house. Although, I must admit, I do enjoy the time and routine performing the admin tasks for Justin and his firm… it provides me with a good routine of going to his office, stopping by the coffee shop next to his office and the time working the tasks is rewarding. And, on occasion, when Justin comes to the office while I’m still there, a little extra time to catch-up with him.

One psychological theory I learned a little more about and it’s influence upon us is the self-determination theory. This tells us that three needs drive human happiness: autonomy, competence, and connection. During our working years, autonomy is often in short supply. We follow schedules, answer to supervisors, and spend years balancing other people’s priorities. Retirement flips that script. Suddenly, we decide when to wake, what to do, who to see -and- on our time!

This freedom isn’t just about leisure; it’s about alignment. When You can design your day around what matters most, You re-engage the brain’s curiosity and pleasure pathways. Ask yourself: what choices make me feel most alive now? That question alone can reignite a sense of purpose.

If there’s one secret to long-term happiness, this is it — Relationships!
The Harvard’s Study of Adult Development has tracked for over 80 years what makes life satisfying. The answer wasn’t money, success, or even health — it was close relationships.

Retirement gives us time to deepen those bonds. We can finally linger over coffee with friends, call siblings more often, or volunteer in ways that connect us to community.

We sometimes worry we’ll lose our social circle after leaving work. That’s true for a while, it’s a natural progression. However, if You begin to intentionally rebuild connection — joining groups, mentoring, or simply scheduling regular catch-ups, You can begin to rebuild stronger, more meaningful ties than ever before.

Too often, retirement is defined by what we leave behind: the job title, the to-do list, the paycheck. I would challenge You to look to reframe it to what we are retiring into!

Studies have shown that purpose protects against depression and cognitive decline. One large study found that people with a strong sense of purpose were 2.4 times more likely to stay mentally sharp as they aged.

Purpose doesn’t have to mean a grand mission. It can be mentoring young people, growing a garden, painting, or helping out in the local community. Building a sense of contribution lights up the same reward circuits as professional success — but without the stress.

You will again begin to appreciate the beauty in everyday occurrences and the freedom to enjoy them at your own pace. It’s about slowing down and savoring life’s little joys. This newfound appreciation can bring a deep sense of contentment.

Simple pleasures can have a big impact on our overall happiness. They’re easy to overlook when we are caught up in the hustle and bustle of a career. Our ‘Encore’ offers the chance to slow down and really notice these moments. It’s about living in the present and finding happiness in the here and now. Embracing these simple joys can make your ‘Encore’ years some of the most rewarding.

Continue stepping forward in our Encore phase with enthusiasm and eagerness -and- please continue to take care of yourself, make the most of your days -and- always remember;

“Never quit searching, never settle and never give up seeking your greater purpose!“