How to Craft Success Using the Power of New Habits in Your Encore Career

Embarking on an encore career can be both exciting and daunting. As someone stepping into this new phase, it’s crucial to recognize that the success of your new journey heavily relies on the habits you cultivate. In James Clear’s book, Atomic Habits, we find invaluable guidance on the power of small, incremental changes in our behaviors. These modifications, though seemingly minor, can lead to profound long-term benefits, especially as you navigate the transition into your encore career.

The Power of Incremental Change

Clear emphasizes that the secret to achieving success is not found in making huge, sudden changes but in the cumulative effect of small habits repeated over time. For those of us at the cusp of an encore career, this insight is particularly vital. It’s about focusing on “atomic habits,” or tiny changes that together drive remarkable results. This concept is crucial because, at this stage, the thought of completely revamping our lives or habits can feel overwhelming. Instead, embracing the idea of gradual improvement makes the process less intimidating and more manageable.

Establishing Systems Over Goals

As we transition into new career phases, the allure of setting big, audacious goals is strong. However, Clear advises that establishing robust systems is more beneficial. Why? Systems are the repeated processes that lead to those goals. For instance, if your encore career involves consulting, don’t just aim to be a “successful consultant.” Establish a daily system of contacting new clients, updating your skills, and reading industry news – these are the habits that culminate in achieving that overarching goal. This approach shifts your focus from the uncertain outcome to the controllable, repeatable actions, providing a clearer path forward and reducing anxiety about the end results.

Habit Stacking: Linking the New to the Familiar

One of the most practical takeaways from Atomic Habits is the technique of habit stacking. This involves linking a new habit to an already established routine. For example, if you’re used to reading the morning newspaper, stack a new habit of jotting down business ideas right after this activity. Associating a new habit with a well-entrenched one provides a natural trigger, making the new habit easier to adopt and stick with. This method reduces the mental energy required to remember to perform the new habit, as it becomes a natural extension of an existing sequence.

The Role of Environment

Our environment significantly influences our behavior. Clear suggests making the cues of good habits obvious and the cues of bad habits invisible. For someone in their encore career, this could mean setting up a dedicated workspace free from distractions, helping cultivate habits like systematic planning and uninterrupted work time. Alternatively, it means removing temptations that may lead to procrastination. By thoughtfully designing our surroundings, we enhance our likelihood to naturally gravitate towards productive behaviors.

The Four-Step Model to Sustain Habits

Clear outlines a four-step model to build good habits and break bad ones:

1. Make it obvious: Design your environment to highlight the cues of good habits. For instance, place your work materials in a visible spot.

2. Make it attractive: Bundle a habit you need to do with one you want to do. If you enjoy coffee, perhaps start your work session coinciding with your morning cup.

3. Make it easy: Reduce friction to performing the good habit. Have all your work tools easily accessible, so starting work requires minimal effort.

4. Make it satisfying: Implement immediate rewards for completing part of a habit. If you finish a work session, reward yourself with a small treat or a leisurely break.

As we launch into our encore careers, the habits we establish are foundational to our success. Through the guidance offered in Atomic Habits, we learn that the transformation into this new career phase doesn’t have to be monumental or sudden. It’s about making small, wise changes consistently, using our existing routines as launching pads, organizing our surroundings to support our goals, and strategically establishing habits that are attractive, easy, and satisfying.

Your encore career offers a new realm of possibilities and tapping into the power of atomic habits ensures that you are consistently working towards realizing these possibilities. Cultivate your habits wisely, and watch as they pave the path to a fulfilling and successful new beginning.

Interested in working together? Book a call with me today!

The Power of Valuable Relationships in Starting Your Encore Career

As we journey into the exciting phase of an encore career, the terrain ahead is unfamiliar and often fraught with unique challenges that individual effort alone cannot solve. This is precisely where the concept of Who Not How, introduced by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy, becomes a significant beacon of strategy and approach. In this realm of rediscovery and professional rebirth, understanding the crucial role of relationships is not just beneficial; it’s indispensable.

Transitioning into an encore career means more than just changing jobs. It’s about redefining oneself and aligning with purposes and passions that may have been sidelined in earlier career stages. Here, the stakes are not just about achievement, but about finding fulfillment and making meaningful contributions. Therefore, the focus shifts sharply from the solitary pursuit of goals to the strategic building of alliances.

Why Relationships Matter

In Who Not How, the authors challenge the age-old belief that personal effort is the primary path to achieving one’s goals. They argue persuasively for a paradigm shift towards identifying and collaborating with the right people who can handle specific tasks with expertise. For someone stepping into an encore career, this approach is not just a shortcut to efficiency but a robust strategy for enhancing effectiveness and scope of impact.

1. Leveraging Expertise: At this career juncture, time is incredibly valuable. By building relationships with skilled individuals, one can leverage their expertise to accomplish more, often beyond the perceived limits of one’s direct capability. This leverage is pivotal in accelerating career transition and grasping opportunities with a higher complexity that require specialized knowledge.

2. Expanding Horizons: Solid professional relationships open up new horizons. They provide insights into industries, processes, and innovations that remain outside one’s immediate knowledge realm. This expansion is crucial during an encore career as it often involves venturing into either new fields or deeper, unexplored layers of familiar terrains.

3. Shared Effort, Multiplied Success: Collaborations multiply potential for success. When individuals share a vision and contribute mutually towards common goals, the resultant synergy can surpass individual efforts significantly. This shared journey not only smoothes out many operational hurdles but also enriches the experience with diverse perspectives and ideas.

Building the Right Relationships

Understanding why relationships matter is a start, but knowing how to build and nurture these relationships is where the real work begins. Based on the strategies suggested in Who Not How, here’s how you can start:

• Identify the ‘Whos’: In building your encore career, identify roles that need expertise you either don’t possess or prefer not to develop. Look for individuals or communities with these skills. Networking events, online platforms, and even old business contacts can serve as valuable resources.

• Recruitment and Collaboration: Once identified, the challenge is to engage these ‘Whos’. Clear communication of your vision and the mutual benefits of the collaboration is essential. Be transparent about expectations and be open to what these potential partners can bring to the table.

• Foster Mutual Growth: True partnership thrives on mutual growth. Ensure that your collaborations offer reciprocal value. This could be in the form of shared profits, enhanced skills, or expanded networks. The goal is to make the relationship beneficial enough to sustain long-term engagement.

• Maintain Relationships: Finally, like any valuable asset, relationships need maintenance. Regular check-ins, appreciation for work done, and ongoing support for partners’ ventures are practices that keep the professional bond strong and productive.

Transitioning into an encore career offers a significant opportunity to redesign one’s professional life. It’s an exciting journey that blends the wisdom of past experiences with the zeal for new ventures. Such a journey, though, is not meant to be walked alone. By embracing the strategy of Who Not How, retirees stepping into new career phases can unlock potentials previously unimaginable, turn visions into tangible successes, and perhaps most importantly, journey through this phase not as isolated professionals but as integral parts of a thriving, supportive network. Let your encore career be not just a testimony of personal resilience but a beacon of collaborative success.

Embracing the Encore: Why Creating an Encore Career After 60 is a Game-Changer

The notion of retirement is undergoing a significant transformation. Gone are the days when retiring meant permanently stepping away from all forms of employment to live a life of leisure. Today, more individuals are choosing to extend their professional lives well into their 60s and beyond. But why this shift? Chris Farrell’s book, Unretirement, sheds light on why embracing an encore career post-60 can be not just beneficial, but essential.

1. Economic Contribution of Older Adults

Traditionally, older adults have been viewed as dependents rather than contributors. However, as Farrell points out, this is a myth that needs debunking. Individuals over 60 bring a wealth of experience and wisdom that can significantly benefit the economy. Their participation in the workforce can boost productivity and bring diverse perspectives that enhance problem-solving and creativity in professional environments.

2. Financial Necessity

For many, the decision to continue working past retirement age is driven by financial necessity. With increasing life expectancy, the financial demands of supporting a longer retirement phase can be challenging. An encore career provides not just a steady income but also helps in maintaining financial independence and security.

3. Desire for Engagement and Purpose

Work provides more than just economic benefits; it offers a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Continuing to work or volunteering in a field you are passionate about can enrich your life immensely, keeping you mentally and physically active. Engaging in meaningful work can help maintain identity, self-confidence, and personal fulfillment.

4. Health and Well-being Benefits

There is substantial evidence suggesting that staying active through work or other pursuits leads to improved health and prolonged mental acuity. According to Farrell, work can also provide a social outlet, helping to combat loneliness and depression, which are common concerns among retirees. The structure and routine that work offers can contribute to better physical and mental health outcomes.

5. Opportunities in the Gig Economy

The rise of the gig economy and flexible work arrangements has opened new doors for seniors who wish to continue working without committing to a full-time job. Opportunities such as freelancing, consulting, or part-time jobs provide the flexibility to work at one’s own pace and according to personal schedules, making it easier for older adults to balance work with other life commitments.

6. Learning and Growth

Farrell emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and staying abreast of new technologies and skills. Many seniors find joy in learning new skills that not only make them more competitive in the job market but also enrich their personal lives. With numerous resources available, such as online courses and workshops tailored for older adults, the opportunity for growth is limitless.

7. Policy and Workplace Adaptations

There is a growing need for policies and business practices that support seniors in the workforce. This includes creating age-friendly work environments and offering training programs tailored to older employees. Businesses that adapt to accommodate the aging population will benefit from the reliability, loyalty, and expertise of older workers while supporting a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

Creating an encore career after 60 is more than a financial necessity; it is an opportunity for personal growth, social engagement, and active participation in society. As explained in “Unretirement,” by continuing to work, seniors can enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling, and financially stable life.

So, if you find yourself contemplating life after the conventional retirement age, consider the possibilities that an encore career offers. It could be not just a means to an end but a rewarding continuation of your life’s work, filled with freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment. Embrace this opportunity to redefine retirement on your terms and make your golden years truly shine.

Let’s work together? Book a call with me here!

Embracing Tiny Habits for a Transformative Encore Career

At the heart of every significant change is the courage to take the smallest step. This is a philosophy profoundly emphasized in BJ Fogg's book Tiny Habits, which teaches that monumental achievements stem from the tiniest beginnings. As someone who has navigated the complex waters of life's transitions, I can personally attest to the power of tiny habits. Through my own journey and professional insights, I've seen how small, consistent actions can lead to substantial transformations in our lives and careers.

The Challenge of Starting

I have always been good at making plans and being inspired by new ideas, but I struggled with getting started and implementing them. This common hurdle often stops many before they even begin. However, I discovered the secret to overcoming this through Tiny Habits. The method taught me the importance of breaking down grand plans into manageable, almost minute actions.

Tiny Habits in Action

The Tiny Habits method starts with identifying a simple behavior that can be added into daily life effortlessly. For me, aiming to carve out an encore career in coaching and consulting post-retirement, it began with dedicating just a few minutes each morning to reading up on industry trends. This habit was anchored to my morning coffee—a routine that already existed, making the new habit easier to remember and adopt.

Celebration of Small Wins

I quickly learned the importance of celebrating small wins, a core principle of the Tiny Habits methodology. Each day, after completing my reading, I would take a moment to acknowledge this progress. This act of celebration not only reinforced my behavior but also built momentum, making these small actions a regular part of my life.

A New Chapter Opens

As these tiny habits solidified, they began to reshape my daily routine and, consequently, my life. My initial efforts to stay updated on industry trends expanded. I began to network, share my knowledge through a blog, and eventually, launch a podcast. Today, my podcast boasts over 225 episodes, each a reflection of my journey and dedication to continual learning and sharing.

Beyond Retirement: A Canvas for Growth

Retirement, often seen as the conclusion of active professional life, was just the beginning for me. I viewed it as an opportunity to redefine productivity and purpose. With tiny habits, I crafted an encore career that not only utilized my vast experience but also brought me joy and fulfillment.

The Role of Questions and Continuous Improvement

My transformation was not just about forming habits but also about the introspection that comes with it. I was inspired by thought leaders like Tim Gallwey and Leo Babauta, who emphasize the impact of the questions we ask ourselves. "What tiny step can I take today that brings me closer to my encore career?" This question prompted me daily, guiding my gradual but steady progress.

An Invitation to Transform

My story is not just a narrative of personal achievement but also a call to action for anyone standing at the crossroads of retirement or career transition. I invite you to explore the power of tiny habits to build a life aligned with your deepest aspirations.

"Welcome to an inspiring journey into the world of possibilities that await you in your Second Act of life," I encourage. Through my website and resources, I offer guidance and a roadmap tailored to the unique talents and goals of those I mentor.

Conclusion

Tiny habits might appear insignificant at first glance, but their impact can be life-changing. By focusing on the smallest actionable steps, I transformed my post-retirement life into a vibrant tapestry of coaching, podcasting, and continuous growth. My journey underscores that we are not just what we aspire to be, but what we repeatedly do. Tiny habits are the threads by which we can weave a remarkable tapestry of our lives and careers, even beyond retirement.

Interested in working together? Book a call with me today!

Embracing an Unretired Life: Repurposing Yourself for an Encore Career

At sixty-five, I closed the door a thirty-year career, but instead of retreating to a life of leisure, I opened a new chapter as a Transitional Coach. My wife joked that I hadn’t retired but repurposed myself. Reflecting on my journey, I smile at the thought of my ongoing adventure. It's been a transformative nine years since I embraced the entrepreneurial spirit, weathering its challenges and victories. More importantly, I have been a pillar of support for my family and a guiding light for many, helping people transition into fulfilling encore careers.

In Mark Walton's enlightening book, Unretired, the concept of retirement is thoroughly reimagined. Walton challenges the age-old notion that retirement marks the end of active professional life, presenting it instead as a commencement—a promising start to a chapter brimming with personal growth, learning, and societal contribution. Through riveting stories and practical advice, Walton’s book serves as a compelling manifesto for those yearning to redefine their later years.

Retirement is often clouded by myths of lost identity and fears of irrelevance, but Walton debunks these through inspiring examples that showcase the growth and opportunities that await. His book dismantles the traditional view of retirement, encouraging a shift towards a life of rediscovery and meaningful engagement.

One of the most profound lessons from Unretired is the art of reinvention.

Walton provides a roadmap for readers to evaluate their passions, skills, and values. This self-reflection fuels a vision for a post-retirement life that is not only rewarding but also true to one’s deepest values. Whether it's volunteering, starting a new business, or pursuing artistic endeavors, the possibilities are limitless.

Walton doesn’t shy away from the practicalities of navigating this transition. He covers essential topics such as financial planning and maintaining health, ensuring that readers are prepared to enjoy their new lifestyle sustainably. His comprehensive approach includes real-life case studies of those who have successfully stepped into their next acts, enriching their lives and their communities.

However, embracing a new phase of life comes with its set of challenges. Walton offers strategies for overcoming these obstacles, emphasizing resilience and adaptability.

He encourages readers to view setbacks not as failures but as vital learning steps on the journey to personal growth and success.

A particularly compelling aspect of Unretired is its focus on the societal impact of an active older generation. Walton illustrates how retirees can significantly contribute to society—through mentoring, community service, or advocating for causes they are passionate about. This not only enriches their lives but also the lives of others around them, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

So, why consider an encore career? The reasons are as varied as the individuals themselves. For many, it’s about fulfilling a lifelong passion that was set aside in the pursuit of a career or raising a family. For others, it’s about giving back, leveraging decades of experience to benefit others. Whatever your motivation, the journey towards an unretired life promises to be a fulfilling one.

Are you ready to redefine what retirement means for you? Are you eager to explore new possibilities and make your golden years truly golden? If so, consider booking a call with Lynn. With his expertise, you can navigate the path to repurposing your life with confidence. Together, you can craft a personalized plan that aligns with your passions and skills, ensuring your next chapter is as vibrant and impactful as the ones that preceded it.

Remember, retirement isn't the end of the road; it's merely a new beginning. Let Lynn guide you through this exciting transition. By reaching out, you're not just planning for the future; you're taking the first step towards a dynamic and fulfilling encore career. Book your call with Lynn today and start transforming your tomorrow.

Navigating Modern Careers: Insights from "The Portfolio Life" by Christina Wallace

In the serene journey of life, as we tread softly into the golden years, the tapestry of our professional endeavors often yearns for a final, vibrant thread. It's a time when the heart seeks not just the comfort of familiar shores but the thrill of new horizons. The world around us, ever so transient, whispers of changes, of shifts from the singular, steadfast paths of you to a mosaic of myriad pursuits. This is the essence of "The Portfolio Life," a beacon for those of us navigating the waters of career transition, particularly as we embrace the latter stages of our professional lives.

I spoke of this very transition in Episode 133 of my podcast, a dialogue deeply inspired by Christina Wallace's seminal work, The Portfolio Life is not just a concept but a guiding philosophy for crafting an encore career that embodies flexibility, fulfillment, and financial stability. It's a narrative that resonates with my mission to aid individuals aged 55+ through significant life transitions, offering a blueprint for a career composed of diverse streams of income, experiences, and skills.

Adaptability and Lifelong Learning: Your Encore Career Compass

At the heart of "The Portfolio Life" lies the twin principles of adaptability and lifelong learning. For those of us pondering the contours of an encore career, these principles illuminate the path forward. Our rich tapestry of experiences is not merely a relic of the past but a treasure trove for the future. By adopting a mindset of perpetual learning and flexibility, we equip ourselves to navigate the evolving landscapes of work and the opportunities they present.

Identifying Skills and Pursuing Passions with Purpose

One of Wallace's most compelling messages—and a recurring theme in my discussions—is the importance of introspection. Delving into our professional and personal journeys allows us to uncover unique skills and passions. This reflective process can reveal new avenues that align with our deepest values and interests, illuminating paths where our accumulated wisdom finds new expression, be it through consulting, mentoring, or entirely new ventures.

Financial Stability and Time Management: Encore Essentials

Embarking on an encore career often brings with it the dual challenges of ensuring financial stability and managing time effectively. Wallace's insights offer innovative strategies for navigating these challenges, highlighting the gig economy's role in a portfolio career that melds passion with pragmatism. Effective time management becomes crucial, especially for those juggling caregiving duties or other commitments. In this realm, "The Portfolio Life" emerges as a valuable guide, providing practical advice to balance our endeavors without compromising our work's quality or our well-being.

The Power of Community in Crafting Your Encore Career

Perhaps the most refreshing insight from "The Portfolio Life" is the emphasis on community and collaboration. Our encore careers are not cultivated in isolation but thrive within networks of support and shared knowledge. My own journey, and those of many others who have navigated career transitions, underscore the importance of building connections. These communities offer not just practical support and resources but also serve as fountains of inspiration and encouragement.

Envisioning the Future: Encore Careers and Society

Wallace's reflections on the societal implications of shifting toward portfolio careers offer a visionary outlook on the future of work. As more individuals embrace this flexible, diversified approach, we're likely to witness transformative changes in workplace structures, value systems, and definitions of success. This evolution resonates with the desires of many embarking on encore careers for work that is not only financially rewarding but also personally fulfilling and socially meaningful.

A Call to Action: Embracing Your Encore Career Journey

In conclusion, "The Portfolio Life" by Christina Wallace stands as both a guide and an inspiration for those on the threshold of their encore careers. Through adaptability, lifelong learning, and the strategic pursuit of passions, we're presented with the opportunity to craft a second act that echoes our deepest values and aspirations.

The journey toward an encore career, as deliberated in my podcast, is laden with challenges. Yet, armed with the insights from Wallace's work and our reservoir of experiences, we're poised to navigate this journey with confidence and purpose. The portfolio life transcends a mere career strategy; it's a philosophy that celebrates diversity, flexibility, and the pursuit of passion at any life stage.

As we explore the possibilities of our encore careers, let's draw upon the wisdom of "The Portfolio Life," enriched by our personal narratives, to forge a future that is as rewarding as it is impactful. Together, we can embrace the adventure of this next phase, building careers that not only fulfill us but also contribute to the greater good.

Book a call with Lynn today to explore your portfolio life and embark on a journey towards living a truly fulfilling life.

Embracing Slow Productivity for a Successful and Fulfilling Encore Career

As I sit here, reflecting on the myriad of experiences that have painted the canvas of my life, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what the next chapter holds. You see, stepping into an encore career is like embarking on a grand adventure, one that promises not just new challenges but also immense satisfaction and fulfillment. And if there's one guiding principle that I've come to embrace in this journey, it's the concept of slow productivity.

The idea, though it might seem counterintuitive in today's fast-paced world, isn't about reducing our work output but about enhancing the quality of what we do and how we do it. Cal Newport, a thought leader in this arena, has shed light on the importance of focusing on a few essential tasks, fostering an environment conducive to deep work, and minimizing distractions to elevate our productivity. By adopting these practices, we position ourselves to thrive in our encore careers, ensuring they are not only successful but also deeply rewarding.

Prioritizing Essential Tasks

At the heart of slow productivity is the notion that "less is more." In our encore careers, this means honing in on tasks that yield the greatest impact. The allure of multitasking and spreading ourselves thin across numerous projects is a mirage that often leads to burnout rather than accomplishment. Instead, identifying and dedicating ourselves to a handful of priorities can lead to profound satisfaction and notable achievements.

In my own coaching practice, for instance, I've learned to concentrate on client consultations, crafting insightful content, and pursuing professional development. This focused approach not only ensures that I deliver exceptional value to those I serve but also fosters my growth as an individual and a professional.

Creating a Deep Work Environment

Achieving meaningful work requires undivided attention and a space that nurtures concentration. Deep work, a term popularized by Newport, is about immersing ourselves in tasks that demand cognitive effort without succumbing to distractions. This might involve strategies such as time blocking to reserve specific slots for focused work, establishing clear boundaries with our loved ones to protect our work time, and curtailing the habitual scroll through social media.

Scheduling Downtime and Embracing Rest

Integral to the philosophy of slow productivity is the recognition of rest as a cornerstone of sustained performance and creativity. It's crucial to carve out time for relaxation and pursuits that rejuvenate our minds and spirits. Whether it's through reading, strolling in nature, meditation, or indulging in a hobby, these moments of repose are not just beneficial for our well-being; they are essential.

Fostering a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset, the belief in the potential for development and learning through perseverance and effort, is vital in our encore careers. This perspective encourages us to seek out new knowledge, reflect on our experiences, and welcome feedback as opportunities for advancement. Viewing challenges as stepping stones rather than obstacles can profoundly influence our journey, propelling us toward our goals with resilience and adaptability.

Cultivating Meaningful Relationships

No career, encore or otherwise, thrives in isolation. The relationships we nurture play a pivotal role in our success and fulfillment. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who share our aspirations and values opens doors to new opportunities, insights, and support networks. By engaging in community events, joining forums, and seeking mentorship, we lay the groundwork for a thriving professional ecosystem.

In closing, the path to a successful and fulfilling encore career is paved with intentionality. By embracing the principles of slow productivity—prioritizing what truly matters, fostering deep work, valuing rest, cultivating a growth mindset, and building meaningful connections—we set the stage for a chapter of life that's not only productive but also enriching and enjoyable. Let us step into this adventure with open hearts and minds, ready to embrace all the possibilities it holds. Visit LynnFriesth.com for more insights and guidance on navigating your encore career with purpose, freedom, and flexibility. Together, let's craft a narrative of success, grounded in the principles of slow productivity.

If you’re thinking about starting an Encore Career and aren’t sure what the transition will look and feel like, book a quick call with me to learn more.

I’d love to hear your thoughts…

Transform Your Career with Insights from Working Identity

As we find ourselves meandering along the path of life, we occasionally pause, reflect, and sometimes, feel the stirrings of a desire for change. This desire, particularly when it nudges us towards a career change, can be both a thrilling and somewhat intimidating endeavor. At this stage of our journey, where experience has painted our perspectives with broad strokes of wisdom, the prospect of reinventing ourselves professionally can seem like navigating through a dense fog. Yet, it is within this fog that we discover rays of light, guiding us towards clarity and purpose. One such beacon of insight that has illuminated the path for many, including myself, is Herminia Ibarra's "Working Identity: Unconventional Strategies for Reinventing Your Career."

In our quest for transformation, we often grapple with uncertainties and questions about our professional identity, seeking direction on how to move forward. Herminia Ibarra, a luminary in the realms of career development and organizational behavior, offers a lantern to light our way. Through her seminal work, Ibarra challenges the traditional narratives that have long governed the discourse on career change. "Working Identity" unfurls before us an enriching tapestry of how successful career changers actually journey through the process of redefining who they are, professionally speaking.

Central to Ibarra's thesis is the pivotal role of experimentation in unearthing new professional paths. Contrary to the oft-touted advice of introspective soul-searching, Ibarra advocates for a more hands-on approach. It is by dipping our toes into diverse professional waters that we discover where our true passions and interests lie. This pragmatic strategy encourages us to step beyond our comfort zones, to explore and engage with the world in ways we might not have previously considered.

Moreover, Ibarra underscores the significance of networking, particularly with individuals outside our immediate circle. Such connections, often unexpected, can open doors to opportunities that resonate with our evolving career aspirations. These new relationships become the threads that weave the rich tapestry of our professional lives, guiding us through the labyrinth of career change.

An intriguing concept introduced by Ibarra is the "identity workspace," a metaphorical arena where we can safely experiment and test out new professional identities. This space allows for trial and error, enabling us to gradually refine and adapt our career vision. It's a gentle reminder that the journey of reinventing ourselves is one of patience, persistence, and incremental discovery.

"Working Identity" acknowledges that career transformation is not a straight path but a winding road filled with trials, errors, and revelations. Ibarra's empathetic and realistic approach reassures us that it is okay to embrace uncertainty and adopt a spirit of exploration and courage.

For those contemplating a change or seeking to redefine their professional trajectory, "Working Identity" serves not just as a book, but as a compass, guiding you through the complex process of career reinvention. If the themes touched upon here strike a chord with you, I warmly invite you to delve deeper into Ibarra's work. Perhaps, over a cup of coffee, we can share our experiences and insights, enriching our journey towards professional growth and discovery.

The path to reinventing one's career, though fraught with challenges, is brimming with opportunities for growth, exploration, and ultimately, the fulfillment of aligning our professional lives with our deepest passions and aspirations. Let us embrace "Working Identity" as a companion on this transformative expedition, shedding light on our path to a rewarding and purpose-driven career.

Remember, my friends, in the grand tapestry of career transformation, the only constant is change itself. But armed with the right insights and strategies, such as those offered by Ibarra, we can navigate this change with grace, leading to new horizons of opportunity and fulfillment.

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Rewriting Retirement: Shift Your Expectations to Find Fulfillment in Your Golden Years

When I first retired, I thought that this would bring me the time and space to create what I hoped for. What I found out soon was that while the time was there, I could do anything that I wanted. I didn't have any structure or routine in place to help me focus and get to work on something. Being a natural learner and curious, I found that I could spend endless time gathering knowledge and insights, but I needed to create some routines to actually create and achieve something.

I remember a former factory manager saying in his retirement, he could spend all day reading the Wall Street Journal. After his comment, I thought about it for days, weeks even, and I found it interesting that if he could read the Wall Street Journal all day, but what would come of it afterwards?

Was reading the Wall Street Journal creating any value to others? Was he sharing his knowledge with what he had learned from reading the WSJ? Was he using the knowledge for entertainment or was he actually going to share and use the knowledge with others? I never got an answer from him, that's ok, it was more about what I wanted to do in retirement that struck me with this conversation. Do I want to read the WSJ all day or do I want to share my knowledge with those that need it?

I chose the latter.

No disrespect to those that want to read all day, I find that fascinating too. However, I wanted more. I wanted to share what I've learned over the years to help others in similar positions. I didn't want to play pickleball daily and as much as I love reading, I didn't want to just read either. I knew I had more to give and wanted to share.

Many of us have an idyllic vision of what retirement will be like - endless days filled with recreation, relaxation, and realizing long-held dreams. Yet the reality often fails to meet these lofty expectations.

As author and retirement coach Nancy Schlossberg notes, "Too much leisure leaves some with not enough to do or a loss of purpose."

Pre-retirees often expect that retirement will bring complete freedom and ample time to pursue hobbies, travel frequently, and connect more with friends and family. However, the day-to-day experience of retirement can end up looking quite different.

Author Ernie Zelinski observes this gap, stating that "Retirement is like a long vacation in that we are paid upfront for it through a lifetime of work. Of course, retirement is not actually a permanent vacation."

Many pre-retirees envision filling their weekdays with beloved hobbies like golf, fishing, gardening, pickleball and the like. Yet these hobbies often fail to consume 40+ hours per week previously spent at a job. Without a clear sense of purpose and routine, retirees can begin to feel aimless and adrift. Lonely even.

As the famous psychologist Erik Erikson noted, "To resolve the crisis of generatively versus stagnation occurring at this stage, the individual must find purpose and meaning through developing the next generation."

Retirees can also struggle with the social transition, expecting that they will effortlessly fill their calendar by spending more time with family and friends. However, it becomes clear that loved ones still have their own routines and commitments.

Retirement coach and author Stephanie Watson cautions, “You may find that friends are still working or living active lives with little time for casual phone conversations or impromptu lunches.”

Along with boredom, isolation and emotional struggles can set in. The reality is also that many pre-retirees fail to appropriately budget and plan for this next phase. Author Suze Orman explains, "You need to understand what your expenses will be so your retirement income can sustain the retirement you envision.” Without adequate savings and resourcing, dreams of extensive travel and leisure often remain out of reach. Physical limitations also begin to shift one’s expectations of what is realistic to take on. Maintaining health and accepting changing abilities become key.

Orman shares that, “The golden years aren't so golden for your body; by the time you retire, you probably won't be able to take on the physical tasks you assume you can do right now."

While retirement may not match most pre-retiree expectations, creating structure, community and purpose can help bridge the gap towards retirement satisfaction. Expanding one’s definition of purposeful work, taking advantage of senior education opportunities, and deliberately creating social rituals can help provide the meaning many expect retirement to automatically provide. With some redefinition and proactivity, retirement can still prove to be a rewarding and special life phase.

If you ever need to talk, I'm here for you. If any of this resonates, I'm here for you. You're not alone in this stage of life and I'm happy to listen.

Now, I’d love to hear from you.

Are you thinking about retirement? Are you nervous or anxious about the next phase of life?

Tell me in the comments below.

We’re all in this together,

Lynn

Embrace the Benefits of Working in Retirement

The moment you officially retire does not necessarily mean you must completely stop working. In fact, by continuing some form of work during retirement, you can reap many rewards that can make your golden years truly shine.

Keeps Your Mind Sharp and Learning

Retirement provides the perfect opportunity to continue expanding your knowledge into new territories. By taking on post-retirement work, whether part-time, as a consultant, volunteering, or even starting a business, you maintain a growth mindset.

At this stage, it's not about the ambition of climbing the corporate ladder anymore. Instead, it becomes more about personal development, learning new skills that interest you, and keeping your mind active. You may decide to learn new technologies, foreign languages, craftsmanship abilities—the options are endless according to your interests! An active and engaged mind is a healthy one.

Builds Social Bonds

Part-time and volunteer work allow you to connect with like-minded people who share your passions or ideas. Being part of a collaborative team, where you can share creative concepts and work towards common objectives, can be incredibly socially rewarding. It helps you build meaningful friendships and a sense of community, allowing you to play an active part in the world around you. The social benefits of working in retirement are just as critical as the mental stimulation.

Provides Financial Security

While money should ideally not be the prime motivator if you already have adequate retirement savings, continuing to work part-time certainly provides extra financial cushioning. The additional income allows for more flexibility and comfort to pursue activities you enjoy during retirement. It reduces financial stress and grants peace of mind.

Keeps You Energized and Active

Sitting idle at home every single day during retirement can become monotonous and dull rather quickly. Continuing some form of work keeps you physically and mentally active. It gives you a sense of daily purpose and structure, which is incredibly important for long-term health. Staying active can also help reduce the risk of illnesses like heart disease and osteoporosis.

Working to some degree in retirement—whether part-time, as a consultant, volunteering, or even starting a small business—provides tremendous mental, social, financial, and physical benefits. All of these combined lead to a longer, more fulfilling, and engaged retired life. So why not make it part of your own retirement plan?

Embrace the possibilities that working in retirement offers. It's not about the daily grind anymore; it's about enriching your life in more ways than one. Whether you choose to explore new passions, help others through volunteering, or start a small venture, working during retirement can open doors to a vibrant and fulfilling future.

So, make the most of your retirement and consider how you can incorporate work into this exciting phase of life. It's a journey worth taking.

Thoughts? I’d love to hear them.