Cheryl Greenberg, Ed.D.Dr. Cheryl Greenberg, Ed.D., works as a coach, or guide, for seniors and their families as they consider and plan for changes in their personal and work lives. Contact her at theagecoach@gmail.com or 336-202-5669.
As a life coach for seniors, I frequently have conversations with folks who are thinking about retiring, moving from one home to another, and, of course, creating new roles and adventures. I have these conversations with individuals, but also in groups, when participants can share their concerns and ideas, and support each other.
So, imagine my interest when I came across a company that offers week-long workshops set on tropical beaches, with luxurious food and delightful recreation. A week of “navigating transitions” and “cultivating purpose” through pre-planned protocols and exercises.
These programs can be attractive for many people, people who have the inclination to process their thoughts and feelings in a structured program … and have the required block of time and tuition.
But what are alternatives? Can we create a “fulfilling future” on our own or with a little support? Let’s look at some steps that help uncover our individual answers to “What is next in my life?”
A Check List or Log
A great place to start is to look back: What have you enjoyed in the past? What are your interests and skills? What activities have brought you joy and a sense of meaningful contribution?
And look forward: Think deeply and openly about your bucket list. What have you wanted to do for a long time, but haven’t found time or resources? What is a skill you always wanted to develop or a place you have often dreamed about seeing? What would you like to do for your community or family?
Do this thinking over time. Let the ideas percolate. And importantly, write down the ideas so that you can return to them with more thought and feeling.
Be a Detective
Spend time on the internet and talking with people in your community to gather even more ideas about what might appeal to you.
Look for organizations and individuals who have similar interests. Untold numbers of communities are looking for volunteers with your interests. The same untold number are offering classes and events you can join to turn your interests into action.
Check universities, arts classes, and community centers for classes and events that interest you. Find out about local and regional volunteer needs in education, housing, legal support, food preparation, and more.
Make a (Starter) Plan
You don’t need all your concerns addressed and you don’t need to know exactly what you will do before moving forward. It is more important to have a sense of what you might want to do and then step into trying it out … with a little tap into the waters or a bigger dive. Of course, be cautious. Know who you are working with. Check credentials. And check your own health, finances, and schedule.
Reach Out for Advice and Support
It is sometimes difficult to see the possibilities, particularly at first. Don’t hesitate to reach out to life coaches or older adults or retirement coaches, as well as people who share your interests. Coaching and conversations can ease concerns about what is next and how to find it.
Give It a Try
And then, when you are comfortable and safe, give it a try. Remember that a special gift of post-retirement futures is you have freedom to make choices that suit your interests, and you can make changes along the way. Get started and see what is next!
Your fulfilling future can be exciting!
Would you like to talk about activities for your fulfilling future or other questions about this new period in your life? Contact Dr. Cheryl Greenberg at theagecoach@gmail.com.