Dr. Leahcim Semaj
Psychologist | Author | Social Philosopher | Spiritual Guide | Management Consultant

Living Beyond Retirement

The length of time that people live beyond retirement can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, including their overall health, lifestyle, genetics, and access to healthcare.

In general, life expectancy has been increasing in many countries around the world due to advances in healthcare, nutrition, and other factors. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the global average life expectancy at birth is 72 years, although it can vary significantly from one country to another.

For people who retire at the age of 65, this means that they may potentially have several decades of life beyond retirement. However, it is important to note that these are just averages and that individual experiences can vary greatly. Some people may live well into their 90s or even beyond, while others may face health challenges that shorten their lifespan.

It is also worth noting that the length of time that people live beyond retirement can have significant financial and logistical implications, as it can affect things like retirement savings, healthcare costs, and long-term care planning.

PHASE ONE – THE VACATION

You wake up when you want, you do what you want all day. The best part is that there is no set routine. For most people, phase one represents their view of an ideal retirement. Relaxing, fun in the sun and freedom. This phase lasts for about a year or so, and then, strangely, it begins to lose its luster. We begin to feel a bit bored. We miss our routine. Something in us seems to need one. And we ask ourselves, “Is that all there is to retirement?”

When these thoughts and feelings start to bubble up, you have already moved into phase two.

PHASE TWO – THE EXPERIENCE OF LOSS:

Phase two is when we lose the big five – significant losses all associated with retirement.

ROUTINE – We lose that routine.
SENSE OF IDENTITY – We lose a sense of identity.
RELATIONSHIPS – We lose many of the relationships that we had established at work.
SENSE OF PURPOSE – We lose a sense of purpose.
LOSS OF POWER – And for some people, there is a loss of power.

Phase two is also when we come face to face with the Three Ds:

Divorce or doing it alone.
Depression
Decline – both physical and mental.

There are many strategies to successfully navigate this stage.

PHASE THREE – TIME OF TRIAL AND ERROR.

In phase three, we ask ourselves,

“How can I make my life meaningful again?
How can I contribute?”

The answer often is to do things that you love to do and do well.

But phase three can also deliver some disappointment and failure if not effectively negotiated.

PHASE FOUR – TIME TO REINVENT AND REWIRE.

Here your Anchor Leg strategies will be unleashed.

My role is to l help you to prepare for and successfully execute the years 60 and beyond.

Strategies for re-inventing and rewiring yourself in retirement.

Start by setting clear goals for what you want to achieve in retirement. This will give you a roadmap for the future and help you stay motivated.
Learn something new. Take a class, read books, or explore a new hobby. Continuous learning will keep your mind active and engaged.
Volunteer. Giving back to your community is a great way to stay connected and make a difference.
Stay physically active. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Stay socially connected. Maintaining relationships with friends and family is important for emotional well-being.
Consider a part-time job or starting a business. This can provide a sense of purpose and financial stability.
Travel and explore new places. Retirement is a great time to see the world and experience new cultures.
Reevaluate your finances and create a budget. Make sure you have a solid financial plan in place for the future.
Get organized. Take the time to declutter and simplify your life, which can help reduce stress.

10. Embrace change. Retirement is a major life transition, and it can be scary, but it’s also an opportunity to reinvent yourself and try new things.

These are some strategies you can use to help you rewire and reinvent yourself in retirement. The key is to stay open-minded and be willing to try new things. Remember, retirement is not the end, but the beginning of a brand-new chapter in your wonderful life.

Reigniting Your Sense of Purpose as You Age.

Finding a sense of purpose in old age can be an important way to maintain mental and emotional well-being. There are several things that you can do to reignite your sense of purpose as you age:

Reflect on your values and interests: Take some time to think about what is important to you and what you enjoy doing. This can help you identify activities or goals that align with your values and give you a sense of purpose.
Engage in activities that challenge you: Participating in activities that challenge you, whether they are physical, mental, or social, can help you feel engaged and purposeful.
Volunteer or give back to others: Finding ways to give back to others, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or helping in your community, can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Explore new interests or hobbies: Trying new things or taking up a new hobby can help you discover new passions and interests that can give you a sense of purpose.
Connect with others: Maintaining social connections and participating in activities with others can provide a sense of purpose and belonging.
Seek support if needed: If you are struggling to find a sense of purpose in old age, it may be helpful to seek support from a coach, therapist, or other mental health professional. They can help you identify and work through any issues that may be hindering your ability to find purpose and meaning in your life.

It is important to note that these are just a few examples of ways to reignite your sense of purpose in old age, and that individual experiences and needs may vary. It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if you are struggling with feelings of purposelessness or other mental health concerns.

Explore the Science and Art of Healthy Aging:

Drawing from my books “Body Works” and “The Best is Yet to Come,” we’ll guide you through integrating exercise and psychological well-being to enhance the retirement years. Learn to embrace this transformative phase with strategies for physical fitness, mental resilience, and embracing the profound opportunities that await in the anchor leg of your journey.

IF YOU DON’T TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY, WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO LIVE?

Books available on Amazon

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