The Second Essential Key to a Joyful Retirement: PLAN to Understand Change and Transition
Not all change is the same, nor will it be experienced in the same way. The most challenging type of change is when it happens suddenly, with no control, such as a sudden lay-off. Conversely, the most favourable type of change is when it’s planned and completely within one’s control. However, even the most favourable type of change has a major impact on us physically, mentally and emotionally. When it comes to retirement, it’s also a MAJOR transformational change—a deep, identity-level change that redefines how we think, live, or work. Planning to understand change and transformation is therefore key to a successful transition to retirement.
Over the years, researchers have developed many models and stages of change; however, I always refer to William Bridges’ model: Ending, Neutral, New Beginning. Why? Because the model allows for a gamut of emotions and reactions, there is nothing and everything to be expected, and that’s normal. In my Retire to the Life You Design workshop, I use the metaphor of crossing a river to explain Bridges’ model.
The Ending: You push away from the shore and enter the river (or may be pushed into it!). Work life, as you know it, has ended, and feelings range from despair and fear to relief and excitement.
Neutral: As you try to reach the other side, you’re pulled and pushed into the swift currents, trapped in eddies, thrown into rapids, and experience calm waters. The neutral stage is the most difficult, and the length and intensity of the transition will be as unique as your signature. You may experience confusion, depression, anxiety, lack of direction and even worthlessness. These feelings are normal and expected – it’s okay to feel the way you do!
New Beginning: When you get to the other side of the river – the new beginning, you’re excited, confident, hopeful, committed and ready to begin a new way of life.
Bridges goes on to explain that change is external while transition is internal. Your transition experiences can vary greatly; however, the more you prepare for your journey across the river, the better your experience will be. One thing’s for sure: retirement is a major life event and needs to be treated as such.
Preparing for your psychological journey as intently and purposefully as your financial one is a vital component to ensuring a joyful retirement. I know first-hand how beneficial it can be to understand the change process at this juncture in life, and it would be my pleasure to help guide you through it.
Stay tuned for my December blog: PLAN for Balance, which will wrap up my “Three Essential Keys to a Joyful Retirement” series.
Lana B. is a Certified Facilitator for “Retire to the Life You Design.” If you are looking to plan your best retirement or third act for yourself or your employees, contact Lana B. to discuss your customized workshop or personal coaching.