Hey there, friends! 🌊 So, picture this: I’m tucked away in a charming bed and breakfast on Prince Edward Island, soaking up the sun and gazing at the sea. Sounds dreamy, right? But here’s the twist—while I should be reveling in relaxation, I find myself feeling a little restless. Can you relate? 🤔
The Expectation of Peace
When we think about retirement, especially as women who have spent years juggling careers and caregiving, the idea of peace and quiet feels like a golden ticket. We imagine lazy mornings, long walks, and finally diving into that towering stack of unread books. And yes, for a while, it’s all sunshine and rainbows. But here’s the kicker: peace isn’t the whole story. Who else feels this way? 🙋♀️
Despite the stunning views and a blissfully empty to-do list, I find myself drawn to my laptop. I want to write and connect with you all—sharing our journeys, our thoughts, and perhaps our struggles. My husband is happily engrossed in a cricket match, while I’m here typing away, realizing something significant: I don’t miss the meetings or the deadlines, but I do miss feeling intellectually engaged. The craving for purpose is real.
The Role of Purpose in Our Lives
Let’s talk about purpose for a minute. Research suggests that having a sense of meaning plays a crucial role in our well-being, especially in retirement. Did you know that people who feel a strong sense of purpose tend to live longer and experience less depression? That’s powerful stuff! 💪
Here’s a thought: a study from Canada found that women who plan not just financially but also for their lifestyle in retirement tend to feel way more satisfied. Planning for fulfillment isn’t just a nice idea; it’s vital! So, maybe it’s time to rethink our retirement game plan. What do you think? 🤔
In my own coaching work, I focus on helping women design the lifestyle side of retirement. It’s about stepping into this new chapter with clarity and joy. I even put together a 5-step guide to help women envision what fulfillment can look like now—because let’s face it, rest is great, but we also need purpose.
Finding Your Peace and Purpose
Now, let’s get personal. Where do you feel most at home with yourself? For me, it’s my purple recliner in the corner of my bedroom. On chilly winter mornings, I love waking up early, lighting candles, and sipping coffee while writing, journaling, and meditating. It’s my sanctuary—a place where I reconnect with myself. 💜
Maybe for you, it’s curling up with a good book, having deep conversations, or exploring a new hobby. Whatever your blend of calm and creativity looks like, that’s your sweet spot. It’s about finding what makes you tick and embracing it. Remember, purpose doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. It can be something beautifully simple, like enjoying a moment of stillness or discovering a new interest.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “What now?” after retirement, know that you’re not alone. I hear it from so many women. The desire for something more, the gentle tug toward meaning—it’s a common thread. If that resonates with you, maybe it’s time to consider your ideal rhythm and what it would include. Let’s figure it out together! 🌟
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Retirement isn’t the end of purpose; it’s the beginning of choosing yourself. So, how do you balance rest and engagement in your life right now? And where do you feel most connected and grounded? If you could design your ideal retirement, what would it look like? Let’s keep this conversation going! 💬