STOP THE MADNESS ABOUT WHAT YOU CALL YOUR “RETIREMENT” -

In a small, recent poll I asked folks “What is the word or phrase you prefer when speaking of your “retirement?” 71% preferred “Next chapter” while 29% preferred “Retirement”. Through additional research and conversation, other terms that popped up include “Arrivement, Encore life, Golden years, Flextirement, Jubilee, Life 2.0, My time, Next act, Next stage, Prime time, Respite, Rewirement, Third act, and Unplugged”.

I ask you, when hearing the term “retirement” does it drive you crazy? Why is that? Does it make you feel old even though you can run circles around your younger counterparts? Does it trigger visions of long nature walks, rewarding part-time paid or volunteer work, and reading those novels that have been sitting on your bookshelf for far too long? What images does “retirement” conjure up in you? Close your eyes and take a moment to reflect…

Now, consider the role of our beliefs. Did you know that beliefs and outlook initiate a cycle that shapes our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, actions and ultimately results? Beliefs profoundly impact our lives as they act as filters for what we notice, our interpretations of life events, and actions we take. So, people who anticipate an active and fulfilling retirement, or whatever you choose to call it, are more likely to have that experience – while those expecting a lackluster retirement are more likely to have that experience. To boot, a positive mindset can favorably impact your health – a topic for another time.

So, focus on your beliefs and imagery of retirement life. If your visions leave a bit to be desired, then reframe them with far greater positivity and associate them with your preferred word for “next chapter” and the most used word “retirement”. Repetitive reframing can rewire your brain. Next, build a supportive environment by spending time with folks who are optimistic and regularly engage in reframing visualization.

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