The days of punching the clock for decades before sliding into a sedentary retirement are over. We’re living and staying vigorous longer than ever, and accepting an arbitrary retirement deadline sells us short. Why settle for winding down when, instead, you could be gearing up for your most inspired chapter yet?
As a business coach who has started over multiple times in my own career, I urge you to resist outdated societal assumptions that meaningful work has an expiration date. You have so much yet to offer this world. I always tell my clients – no matter their age or background – that they have untapped potential within them waiting to be unleashed.
Give Yourself Permission to Dream
To ignite your sense of possibility, dedicate time to envisioning what work excites and compels you. Retirement is optional; you can renew your career outlook at any age. Explore overlooked industries that align with your passions or take a unique slant on your current field. No door is closed. I see too many people self-limit based on false constructs about how far they can progress at certain stages of life. Break through those untruths! What hidden talents could you offer?
Set Goals to Drive Toward Your Vision
Having a clear goal pulls your thinking into the future. Set specific targets around launching a business, consulting part-time, or switching fields entirely. Whether starting small or going all in, concrete objectives keep you moving forward. Make sure to make your goals tangible and measurable to track progress. Breaking big dreams down into bite-sized milestones builds momentum. Also, set process goals so you stay on track with the disciplines needed to manifest dreams.
Save to Increase Flexibility
Financial foundations expand what’s feasible. Consult a financial planner to maximize workplace retirement savings plans and personal investment strategies. With some cushion, you can more comfortably transition between opportunities or start something new. Of course, balancing current cash flow needs with future contingency funds takes discipline – connect with me for planning help. Build an emergency stash and continuous education fund, too.
Catalog Transferable Skills
Your breadth of abilities is far broader than any one job title. Inventory soft and hard skills from past roles, volunteer gigs, education, and life experience that translate. This reminds you of how much you have to offer in existing or new domains. You likely need far less retraining than you realize. I facilitate this skills assessment process and help clients see just how talented they truly are. What value do you create without even trying? Get an outsider’s lens.
Rather than downgrade your dreams, it’s time to upgrade your self-limiting beliefs around professional purpose. You have the talent, wisdom, and drive to propel yourself into a whole new stratosphere of fulfillment by mixing proven abilities with new frontiers. Why settle for retirement when a reinvention is an option? Let’s connect to craft a vision and actionable next steps tailored to you.
