Retirement doesn’t start the day you stop working — it actually begins years earlier in what I call the Pre-Retirement Phase. This is the stage where dreams and reality collide, and how well you prepare now can make the difference between a retirement that feels exciting… or uncertain.

In this video, I’ll explain:
✅ What the pre-retirement phase really is
✅ The emotions you’ll face — excitement, anxiety, and uncertainty
✅ The biggest mistake people make (focusing only on money)
✅ Practical tips to prepare for retirement beyond finances
✅ Real-life examples of how to plan for purpose, connection, and joy.

The pre-retirement stage is your golden opportunity to experiment, build routines, strengthen relationships, and start shaping the life you want after work. Don’t let it slip by focusing only on spreadsheets — because retirement is about more than money. It’s about meaning.

This video is Part 2 of my 6-part series on the Emotional Stages of Retirement.

Make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss the next stage!

👩‍💻 I’m Maureen Dobranski, and this is Life Starts at Retirement. On this channel, I talk about the real journey of retirement — not just the money side, but what it actually feels like to live day to day after work and to make your retirement remarkable

📍 Today’s filming note: While you’re watching this, I’m actually traveling — enjoying another cruise, this time through Belgium!

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Please check out my video about loneliness in retirement ✅https://youtu.be/a4_OEVoJGcc?si=NlomXsaUbvJIBA4k

Please check out my video about the 3 stages of retirement....Go Go Phase, Slow Go Phase and No Go Phase. ✅https://youtu.be/4-_kDrQnwN8

Please check out my video Forget the money...this is what makes retirees happy! ✅https://youtu.be/9OqDFDeKq2M?si=iFNcv16bvdr2jjBR

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