Baby Boomers Retirement is More Than Just Finances

Even though many Retiring Baby Boomers have been preparing financially with contributions to our 401K's, Roth IRA's, etc - retirement is more than just finances.

How can Baby Boomer workers replace the function that work has played in our lives?

One of the benefits of work is remuneration. We get paid for what we do. It gives us a sense of financial security. But work provides us with more benefits than just remuneration. Let's take a closer look at those benefits.

Work helps us with time management, socialization, a sense of purpose and status.

Work gives structure to our life by managing our time. At times, it over manages our time and leaves little time for fun. Through our work we have agendas and schedules to follow. We know where we are supposed to be and what we are supposed to do. It keeps us organized.

At work we socialize with our co-workers and clients. We form and develop relationships that give us a sense of connection and belonging. We spend our time interacting and communicating with others to get the work done. We have a sense of camaraderie.

Many of us receive the benefit of status from our work. Our sense of personal worth and identity are derived from work. We experience a clear picture of who we are and what we do. We get recognition for what we do.

Work provides us with a sense of purpose. That purpose gives meaning to our lives because we are helping others in some way. We receive some qualitative measure of satisfaction in our life.

So, how will the functions of work be replaced when we retire? How will we get fulfilled?

Retirement is a complicated process that requires planning and introspection. It's not just about the money. There are important social, mental and physical implications as well as other factors to consider when preparing our retirement.

How will we define who we are when we aren't working?

How adaptable are we at making changes in our life?

How well do we rely our own internal sense for guidance and direction?

These are important questions to consider when we think about what retirement really means to us.

Many Baby Boomers won't follow the traditional model of retirement. Some of us will continue working full time at something we truly enjoy or we may decide to work part time because you need the money. Others may start our own business or volunteer our time to worthy causes.

As a Blooming Baby Boomer we certainly won't spend the next thirty years sitting and watching life pass you by. This is the age of a new retirement.
 
So, now might just be the time to give some attention to your future retirement. Vacationing year round may not be the solution that puts genuine meaning in the next phase our lifes.

Let's not short change the next thirty years of your life.
Lets continue blooming!