Navigating Change with Wisdom: A Guide to Thriving in Your Encore Life

As I sit down to reflect on my journey from the early days as an Engineer to my current role as a transition coach at 74, I'm reminded of a pivotal moment that reshaped my understanding of change. It was a simple insight shared by a consultant, "It's not about the numbers, it's about how people feel about the change," that led me to realize change is indeed an "inside" job. This epiphany has guided me through countless transitions, not just in my professional life but in the personal realm as well, especially as I navigated the shift towards retirement.

For many of us, the twilight years of our careers present a paradox. The prospect of retirement brings with it excitement for the future yet also a sense of trepidation about stepping away from a lifetime of routine and identity built around our work. It's a transition that requires not just a change in our daily schedules, but a profound transformation in our mindset and approach to life. Here, the art of change management becomes a critical ally.

The Essence of Adaptability in Encore Life Planning

Traditionally, change management is a concept applied within the corporate world to guide organizations through transition. However, its principles are just as pertinent to our personal lives, especially as we embark on the journey of retirement. This phase, which I like to call the "encore life," is not about winding down but rather about embracing new opportunities with vigor and enthusiasm. As Winston Churchill wisely put it, “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” Perfection in our encore lives means continuously seeking joy and fulfillment, evolving our passions and interests.

The Interplay of Change Management and Encore Living

Transitioning into encore living is essentially about redefining who we are beyond our professional titles. It's a time to explore and commit to new paths that are aligned with our deepest passions and the legacy we wish to leave. The stages of change—from denial and resistance to exploration and commitment—mirror the emotional journey many of us experience as we approach and enter retirement.

Crafting the New Status Quo

The beauty of encore life is in its dynamism. It offers us a canvas to redefine norms and carve out a lifestyle that truly reflects our innermost desires. This period is an invitation to live life in full color, embracing the wisdom of figures like RuPaul, who reminds us that life is about using "the whole box of crayons."

Next Steps to Cultivate Change Management for Your Encore Life

Embarking on this vibrant chapter requires intentional change management. Start by assessing your strengths and areas for growth. Define what a meaningful, engaging encore life looks like for you. Embrace lifelong learning, build a supportive community, and develop a flexible plan that can evolve with you. Remember, change is a constant companion on this journey, and your ability to adapt and refine your path will be key to experiencing the full richness of your encore life.

As we navigate these waters, let us be inspired by the wisdom of Socrates, "The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new." Your encore life is a grand adventure waiting to be embraced with open arms and a willing heart. At LynnFriesth.com, we're here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that your transition into this exciting new chapter is managed with grace, purpose, and zest.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together, crafting an encore life filled with new discoveries, meaningful engagements, and boundless joy.

Now, I’d love to hear from you.

Thoughts?

Creating a Personal Knowledge Network: Key Steps for Intellectual Growth and Connectivity

In the age of information overload, the concept of a Personal Knowledge Network (PKN) has never been more critical. Imagine having a personal think tank, a collection of resources, contacts, and tools tailored specifically to your learning and professional needs. That's what a PKN is all about. It's not just about accumulating information; it's about organizing and leveraging that knowledge to enrich your life and the lives of those around you. Let's dive into what a PKN is, why it's essential, and how you can build one.

What is a Personal Knowledge Network?

A PKN is your personal ecosystem for managing knowledge. It includes the books you read, the people you discuss ideas with, the tools you use to store information, and the systems you have in place for making sense of it all. It's how you navigate through the endless sea of information available today, ensuring that you capture what's relevant and apply it effectively. It's your roadmap to intellectual growth and connectivity.

In a world where change is the only constant, being a lifelong learner is your ticket to the future. As Eric Hoffer once said, "In a time of drastic change, it is the learners who inherit the future." Your PKN is the engine behind this learning, helping you to stay ahead of the curve.

The Role of Technology in PKNs

Thanks to technology, building and maintaining a PKN has never been easier. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter open up networking opportunities. Cloud storage services such as Google Drive and Dropbox make it easy to store and share information. Advanced search engines and AI assistants help sift through the noise to find what's relevant, while content management systems like Notion or Evernote keep your knowledge organized and accessible.

How to Build Your PKN

Creating a PKN that works for you involves a few key steps:

1. Define Your Goals: Start by identifying what you want to achieve with your PKN. Are you looking to stay on top of industry trends, delve into academic research, or explore new hobbies? Your goals will guide the resources and tools you choose.

2. Curate Your Tools: Select tools that are user-friendly and integrate well with each other. Consider social media for networking, bookmarking tools for saving articles, RSS feeds for updates, and note-taking apps for organizing your thoughts.

3. Connect with Others: Your PKN should include people as well as tools. Follow thought leaders, join forums, and engage with peers to expand your network.

4. Practice Discernment: Remember, not all information is created equal. Regularly assess the quality of your sources and refine your filters to ensure you're capturing valuable knowledge.

5. Engage Actively: Don't just consume content passively. Comment on blogs, participate in discussions, and share your insights. This active engagement deepens your understanding and helps solidify your place within your network.

Why You Need a PKN

A PKN is more than a collection of resources; it's a framework for intellectual growth. It helps you make sense of the world, connect with others who share your interests, and apply your knowledge in meaningful ways. In a society where knowledge is power, your PKN is your most valuable asset.

Building a PKN is an ongoing journey, one that requires commitment, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. By taking charge of your learning process and intentionally networking, you're not just staying informed; you're transforming yourself into a more knowledgeable, connected, and insightful person.

Conclusion

The creation of a Personal Knowledge Network is a dynamic process of learning, connecting, and growing. It's about intentionally curating the resources and relationships that will drive your intellectual and professional development. Remember, the goal is not to know everything but to know where to find the information you need and how to use it effectively. Start building your PKN today, and embrace the journey of lifelong learning and connectivity. As Alvin Toffler said, the most important skill in the 21st century is the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn. Your PKN is the key to mastering this skill.

From Golden Years to New Frontiers: The Role of a Coach in Charting Your Encore Career

As I sit here thinking, surrounded by the comforting hum of a life well-lived, I can't help but reflect on the notion of retirement. You see, my friends, retirement is often painted as the final curtain call, the time to slow down and retreat into a quieter existence. But, let me share a perspective that's as refreshing as the first light of dawn on a crisp, autumn morning.

Imagine, if you will, retirement not as an ending, but as a vibrant beginning, a gateway to a path less traveled, filled with potential for growth, reinvention, and deep, fulfilling purpose. This is the essence of what some call an "encore career." And it's within this exciting prospect where a coach can become your most trusted guide, helping to illuminate the path forward.

A coach is someone specially trained to accompany individuals through the ebbs and flows of life's transitions. They are akin to a lighthouse, offering guidance and illumination as you navigate the sometimes misty waters of discovering your encore career. They stand by your side, helping you to unearth your passions, interests, and the strengths that have perhaps lain dormant or underutilized in your previous professional chapters.

You might wonder, "How does this process begin?" It starts with something we have in abundance at our stage of life—time. Time for self-reflection. Retirement gifts us a precious moment to step back, to breathe in the essence of our lives, and to ponder what truly ignites our spirit with joy and satisfaction. A coach walks with you through this journey of introspection, assisting you in peeling back the layers of your life to discover the core of your being—your values, interests, and skills. It's a process that can be as enlightening as it is transformative.

As you embark on this exploration, a coach serves not just as a guide, but as a partner in dialogue, offering an objective and supportive perspective.

They listen with a compassionate ear to your aspirations, gently challenging your assumptions and encouraging you to look beyond the familiar horizons. This relationship, based on mutual respect and understanding, helps you gain a deeper insight into your desires and aspirations for your encore career.

With a clearer sense of direction, a coach then helps you weave together your passions, interests, and the wealth of experience you've accumulated over the years, pointing towards potential career paths that might not only align with your values but also enrich your life in ways you hadn't imagined. They guide you in exploring new industries, roles, and even volunteer opportunities that can benefit from your unique blend of wisdom and skills.

Moreover, a coach is there to support you in acquiring any new skills or knowledge that might be necessary for your new venture.

They help you craft a personalized development plan, identify educational resources, and connect you with a network of individuals and organizations that can aid in your growth.

But perhaps one of the most vital roles a coach plays is that of an accountability partner. Embarking on a new career, especially after retirement, can be a daunting task filled with uncertainties. A coach helps you set realistic goals, break them down into manageable steps, and keeps you focused on your journey, ensuring that you not only dream but also do.

And let's not forget, a coach is your cheerleader, your source of encouragement when the road gets rocky, and your champion in celebrating every milestone achieved. Their belief in your potential can be the wind beneath your wings, propelling you forward when self-doubt seeks to take hold.

My friends, the journey from retirement to reinvention is indeed a voyage of discovery, filled with both challenges and unparalleled opportunities. It's a path that requires courage, reflection, and the willingness to embrace new beginnings. A coach, in this respect, can be your compass, helping you navigate towards a future brimming with purpose and fulfillment. So, if you're standing at the threshold of this exciting chapter, consider reaching out to a coach.

Together, you and I can embark on this journey of transformation, towards an encore career that not only reflects your passions and values but also contributes to a legacy of enduring impact.

Remember, my dear readers, it's never too late to explore new horizons and redefine what it means to live a life of purpose and passion.

I look forward to working with you. Please reach out to discover what’s possible for you at lynn@lynnfriesth.com.

Now, it’s your turn. Have you ever hired a coach? Have you thought about it? What was your experience like?

I’d love to hear all about it.

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

The Power of Mini Habits: My Journey to Confidence

I'm delighted to share with you today the transformative journey I've embarked upon in my golden years. You see, I'm a transitional life coach, and I've discovered a little gem of wisdom that has brought a powerful sense of confidence and vitality into my life. It's all thanks to a remarkable book called Mini Habits by behavior scientist BJ Fogg.

Now, I've seen many of us, including myself, wrestle with grand aspirations and dreams. We yearn to exercise more, eat healthier, or acquire new skills, but all too often, these good intentions fade away into the shadows of old habits that are tough to shake off. The real magic lies in the small yet profound philosophy that BJ Fogg presents in Mini Habits.

Instead of attempting to overhaul our entire lives with daunting resolutions, Fogg suggests that we begin with tiny, achievable wins. It's about taking the first baby steps toward change. You see, major life transformations don't happen overnight; they evolve gradually through the snowball effect of consistent, small actions.

Fogg introduces the concept of "habit stitches," which involve anchoring these new mini habits onto our existing routines. It's all about seamlessly integrating these tiny changes into our daily lives. For example, I started reading just one page of a book upon waking. This mini habits is so simple that they bypass procrastination altogether.

The beauty of mini habits lies in their simplicity and effectiveness. They are easy to start and even easier to maintain. As they become automatic, we can gradually build on them to work towards our bigger goals. The key, my friends, is to always start small. Remember, if our goals are too grand, they become difficult to stick to, and we all know how that story unfolds.

Another wonderful addition to my morning routine was incorporating four powerful affirmations into my journal. The first affirmation, "I am Capable and Strong," may seem simple, but it has had a profound impact on my life and confidence. Reciting it each morning has brought me a sense of calm and courage that sets the tone for the day.

So, if you're someone who dreams big but struggles with consistency, I implore you to give the tiny habit approach a try. Start with those small, manageable steps, and you'll be amazed at how they begin to accumulate and shape your life. It's about embracing the journey, one small step at a time.

Now, I would love to hear from you. What mini habit are you considering adding to your life? Let's make this a two-way conversation because, remember, I'm not the only one talking here!

Share your thoughts, and let's support each other on this incredible journey towards confidence and self-improvement. Together, we can achieve greatness, one mini habit at a time!

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.

Silver Sparks: Retired Folks Shaking Up the Workplace!

Today, I want to share a heartwarming story about a topic that's close to my heart - retirees reshaping the work terrain. You see, in my ripe old age of 70, I've come to realize the value that retirees can bring to the workplace. It's not just about us finding renewed purpose; it's about creating a more inclusive and dynamic work environment for everyone.

Traditionally, retirement was all about kicking back, relaxing, and enjoying life's simple pleasures. But as many of us retirees have discovered, it can also bring feelings of irrelevance and disengagement. That's where the Silver Sparks come in - a growing number of retired professionals choosing to re-enter the workforce.

The Transition

You might wonder, why would anyone want to go back to work after retirement? Well, it turns out that this transition isn't just about keeping busy; it's about sharing the wisdom and skills we've accumulated over the years. It's about staying mentally engaged and active. And for organizations, it's about embracing age diversity.

Age Diversity Matters

In our quest for diversity and inclusion, we often focus on aspects like race, gender, and sexual orientation, but age diversity deserves its place in the spotlight too. Shockingly, a study found that only 8% of companies include age in their diversity and inclusion strategies. We seniors have so much to offer in terms of experience, knowledge, and perspectives that span different age groups.

Mentoring the Younger Generation

One of the beautiful aspects of seniors returning to work is the opportunity for us to mentor the younger generations. We serve as bridges across experience levels, passing on our extensive knowledge and expertise. In my experience, working with the younger generation is exciting. With experience you often see the bigger picture and how the whole systme works vs just pieces. You can’t tweak one piece and not realize how it will affect the entire project or vision. Likewise, the younger generation will ask questions that I’ve taken for grated at this stage of life. For example, why do you turn off you cell phone when you’re not using it? Taking a step back to reevaluate what we take for granted is welcomed when you’re working with a younger generation. Our decades of industry-specific insights can help younger professionals grasp nuances that might otherwise take years to learn.

But it's not just about technical expertise; it's also about soft skills like leadership and communication. We become career guides, helping our younger colleagues set practical goals and expand their networks. This mentorship fosters career growth and self-confidence, creating a culture of learning and excellence.

Impact in the Social Sector

Retired professionals are a hidden treasure for non-profits and social organizations. Many of us are eager to contribute to causes we're passionate about. Part-time and full-time roles in the social sector provide the perfect outlet for us to channel our skills and expertise towards making a positive impact.

Our contributions in areas like finance, human resources, strategic planning, program management, and mentorship can elevate the sector's potential for change. This choice stems from our sense of purpose and the drive to create a tangible difference, fueled by both skills and passion.

The Retiree's Perspective

Retirement is undoubtedly a moment of accomplishment, but it often leaves us searching for renewed purpose. The absence of a structured routine and professional validation can create a void. Returning to work, even in a smaller capacity, offers the chance for meaningful engagement, providing both occupation and renewed purpose.

Post-retirement work keeps our minds sharp, preserving mental agility and lifelong skill refinement. It reminds us of the significance of our contributions, restoring feelings of respect and relevance. Being active and embracing challenges boosts self-esteem and overall well-being.

A Win-Win Situation

So, you see, my friends, retirees returning to work isn't just about personal fulfillment and financial security; it's also about building a more inclusive and dynamic workplace. We experience renewed purpose and mental stimulation, while organizations gain from our wisdom, experience, and strong work ethic.

Embracing this multigenerational approach fosters a harmonious and productive environment, bridging generational gaps. The return to the workforce enriches both personal and professional aspects of retirees' lives. With increasing longevity, we hope to see more organizations incorporating a multigenerational workforce.

In the end, it's a win-win for everyone involved. So, let's embrace the Silver Sparks and let them shine, bringing their wisdom and experience to reshape the work terrain. To read more about this inspiring movement, check out the full article here. It's time to celebrate age diversity and create workplaces that value the contributions of every generation.

Related Articles: Silver Sparks: Retirees Reshaping Work Terrain