Photo by Clemens van Lay on Unsplash
While retirement looks different for everyone and each person adjusts to it in their own unique way, it often follows a general course, which many refer to as the six stages of retirement. We know that not everyone can be boxed neatly into this pattern, however, becoming familiar with these stages can be helpful for those who are anxious about what to expect. What are the six stages of retirement? Let’s take a look.
Stage One: Pre-retirement
You may have a positive or negative outlook when it comes to anticipating your retirement. Some may be eagerly awaiting this exciting new opportunity while for others, the thought of retiring may cause much anxiety. In this stage, many make the mistake of planning out the financial aspects of their retirement but neglecting to think of what it will personally mean for them.
Stage Two: The Big Day
This stage covers the actual event of retiring. For many, this day is marked by a lively celebration and some kind words from their co-workers.
Stage Three: Honeymoon
Much like a marriage, retirement has its own honeymoon period where individuals become starry eyed about all the exciting things it could hold. Here, you realise that you are free to do all those things you’ve always planned, like travelling or taking up a new hobby, and feel exhilarated by this realisation.
Stage Four: Disenchantment
Also known as disillusionment, this stage is where many run the risk of sinking into depression or feeling like something is missing. After every high, there is a low and after the honeymoon stage you may be hit with disappointment, stemming from the fact that your retirement is not quite as expected. All your free time suddenly feels aimless and you may start to miss all your co-workers who you’ve spent years getting to know – you may even miss that one co-worker who used to annoy the hell out of you!
Stage Five: Reorientation
Reorientation is a stage that requires a lot of ‘navel gazing’. In order to take yourself out of the feeling of disenchantment, you need to undergo some self-exploration and find answers to all those scary questions like ‘Who am I now?’ and ‘Where do I belong?’ This stage requires you to put in the effort to actively reorientate yourself and shift your mindset, setting new goals and expectations.
Stage Six: Retirement Routine/’Rewirement’
While this stage may sound a little boring, a retirement routine is nothing but – if you have successfully reorientated yourself and ‘rewired’ your mind. Here is where you can truly live out your golden years in a meaningful way by joining various interest groups and setting up a stable routine. This is not to say no to spontaneity and adventure but simply to find new purpose and belonging.
So, in summary, the answer to ‘What are the six stages of retirement?’ is: Pre-retirement, the big day, the honeymoon, disenchantment, reorientation and routine.
If you have already retired, we’d love to hear from you. How has your retirement been, and can you relate to any of these stages? Leave your comments below.