Retirement is often perceived as a long-awaited escape from daily responsibilities, yet it can also induce feelings of uncertainty. After years spent managing deadlines and juggling duties, many individuals find themselves confronted with an unsettling question: why do I feel lost? This phenomenon is particularly common among women who have devoted their lives to careers and family. Although gratitude for newfound freedom may exist, the anticipated excitement of retirement may not be as vibrant as expected.
This feeling should not discourage you; it is a natural part of the transition into retirement. Many women express sentiments like, “I thought I would feel joy, yet I feel bored or aimless.” The encouraging news is that a fulfilling retirement can be cultivated by understanding the psychology behind happiness.
Understanding the PERMA model
The PERMA model, developed by psychologist Dr. Martin Seligman, is a framework widely recognized in positive psychology. This model outlines five essential components contributing to a fulfilling life, bridging financial security and emotional well-being. The elements of PERMA include:
- P – Positive emotion: The ability to experience joy, gratitude, and satisfaction.
- E – Engagement: Immersing oneself in activities that induce a state offlow, where time seems to disappear.
- R – Relationships: Building connections that foster feelings of value and appreciation.
- M – Meaning: Identifying a purpose that resonates with personal values.
- A – Accomplishment: Experiencing growth and pride from one’s endeavors.
This model serves as a recipe for well-being; while a perfect balance is not essential, the absence of any component can leave life feeling uninspired.
Applying PERMA to your retirement
As I transitioned into retirement, the principles of PERMA became integral to my approach to a new lifestyle. I began to reflect intentionally on each aspect of PERMA, guiding my weekly activities:
Fostering positive emotion
I initiated my mornings by cultivating a sense of calm and gratitude. Simple practices, such as savoring coffee or appreciating morning light, helped set a positive tone for the day. Gratitude serves as a powerful tool for grounding oneself and igniting optimism for the future.
Engaging in meaningful activities
Finding activities that ignite passion is crucial. Whether it is painting, gardening, or participating in sports, discovering what allows you to lose track of time can lead to profound joy. Remember, flow is where happiness flourishes. Consider revisiting beloved hobbies or trying something entirely new.
Rediscovering connections and purpose
Retirement also brings a shift in relationships. The camaraderie of colleagues is often replaced by a quieter social landscape. To combat feelings of disconnection, surround yourself with individuals who uplift and inspire you. Seek new friendships through community classes or volunteer initiatives where curiosity thrives.
Additionally, contemplate where you can contribute meaningfully. Mentoring younger individuals or participating in community projects can provide a renewed sense of purpose. The journey of finding meaning often arises from sharing knowledge and experiences.
Embracing growth and accomplishment
Personal growth does not cease at retirement; in fact, it can flourish. After leaving my career as a social psychologist, I took a significant leap by becoming a certified life coach. Learning new skills from the ground up was both intimidating and exhilarating, illustrating that accomplishment in retirement is about embracing new challenges rather than competing.
This feeling should not discourage you; it is a natural part of the transition into retirement. Many women express sentiments like, “I thought I would feel joy, yet I feel bored or aimless.” The encouraging news is that a fulfilling retirement can be cultivated by understanding the psychology behind happiness.0
This feeling should not discourage you; it is a natural part of the transition into retirement. Many women express sentiments like, “I thought I would feel joy, yet I feel bored or aimless.” The encouraging news is that a fulfilling retirement can be cultivated by understanding the psychology behind happiness.1
This feeling should not discourage you; it is a natural part of the transition into retirement. Many women express sentiments like, “I thought I would feel joy, yet I feel bored or aimless.” The encouraging news is that a fulfilling retirement can be cultivated by understanding the psychology behind happiness.2
