When I envisioned retirement, I pictured endless free time, relaxation, and pure happiness. But recently, I’ve been struggling with a wave of anxiety that I didn't see coming—and even worse, a deep sense of shame or disappointment for not feeling as happy as I "should" be.

We always say retirement is supposed to be the happiest chapter of our lives. So why don't we talk about the days when it isn't?

This is one of the most personal videos I've ever shared. After losing my dad, caring for my mom, trying to be there for my husband, my children, and my six grandchildren, I found myself struggling with feelings I never expected. For years, I believed that being strong meant never struggling. Maybe I was wrong.

In this video, I'm opening up about anxiety, grief, retirement, and what I've learned about strength, kindness, and giving ourselves permission to be human. If you've ever wondered why retirement feels harder than you expected—or if you've been carrying emotions you haven't shared with anyone—I hope this conversation reminds you that you're not alone.

❤️ If this video speaks to you, I'd love to hear your story in the comments.
Thank you for being part of the Life Starts at Retirement community.


Disclaimer: I am sharing my personal story and lived experience. If you are struggling deeply with anxiety or depression, please consider reaching out to a mental health professional. #retirement #mentalhealth #retirementjourney #anxiety #lifeafterwork