December 13, 2023

Defining Your Social Network in Retirement with Craig Colvett, #179

26 minutes

We talk so much about the financial aspects of retirement that it's important to address the mental and emotional shift this season can bring. On this episode, I sit down with life coach Craig Colvett to discuss getting ready for the retirement transition. We talk about the benefits of life coaching for retirees as well as the importance of maintaining a diverse social network.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

What is a life coach? [1:15]
How life coaching can help you in retirement [4:47]
Building a social network and finding renewed purpose in retirement [9:07]
Practical steps to prepare for retirement [18:33]

Put me in, coach!

Every successful team needs a quality coach to achieve their goals. So why is life any different? Life coaching can help provide much-needed perspective for anyone, but especially those approaching or already enjoying retirement. Craig mentioned that around 95% of our thoughts are subconscious. That is a TON to unpack by yourself. A life coach can help you gain clarity on the things you actually want so you can create a meaningful and effective plan for your retirement.

There's no shortage of resources to plan for the financial aspects of retirement. However, too many retirees underestimate the mental and emotional shift that happens when you finally retire. It can feel like your purpose disappeared overnight after leaving a position you've held for the last 20-50 years. A life coach can help you focus on your identity to carve out a renewed purpose for the next chapter of your life.

Building social success in retirement

An often overlooked retirement resource is the building of a social network. So many retirees built their social circles through their jobs. If you don't plan how that gap will be filled once you retire, you could leave yourself exposed to loneliness and isolation. Building a robust social circle with a variety of friendships is one of the keys to a long and successful retirement. But you don't have to wait until you're retired to start working on it. Start filling the social gaps now!

There's no right or wrong way to be retired. Everyone is going to make the best decisions based on their needs and values. Life coaching is just a way to identify your specific needs and values so you can have the best retirement experience possible. And it's never too early to contemplate what your goals in retirement should be. Understanding your goals and challenges is the first step toward planning for a successful retirement!

Resources Mentioned