Most retirement plans answer one question: Can I afford to retire? But far fewer answer the question that often matters just as much: What am I retiring to?

In this episode, Cary Sinnett sits down with renowned researcher and Harvard Business School professor emerita Teresa Amabile to explore the hidden psychological transition that accompanies retirement. Drawing from more than a decade of research and interviews with retirees, she explains why many successful professionals fear retirement, why those fears are often misplaced, and how financial planners can help clients prepare for life beyond the balance sheet.

Whether you're guiding clients toward retirement or thinking about your own future, this conversation offers practical insights into identity, purpose, relationships, and creating a retirement that truly works.

Questions Discussed:

• Why do so many successful professionals fear retirement despite being financially prepared?
• What are the four psychological tasks every retiree faces?
• How can retirees preserve a sense of identity after leaving work?
• What role should financial planners play in preparing clients emotionally for retirement?
• What single question can advisors ask that helps clients begin designing a meaningful retirement?

Key Takeaways:

• Retirement is a transition, not a single event.
• Financial readiness alone does not guarantee retirement satisfaction.
• Many pre-retirees fear the unknown, but most retirees ultimately adapt successfully.
• Identity, relationships, and daily routines are critical components of a fulfilling retirement.
• Financial planners can add tremendous value by encouraging clients to think intentionally about what comes after their careers.

Resources: Article: Retiring: Creating a Life That Works for You Webcast: Financial Planning for Aging Clients Article: 4 Questions to Identify Your Retirement Needs and Goals

This episode is brought to you by the AICPA's Personal Financial Planning Section, the premier provider of information, tools, advocacy, and guidance for professionals who specialize in providing tax, estate, retirement, risk management and investment planning advice. Also, by the CPA/PFS credential program, which allows CPAs to demonstrate competence and confidence in providing these services to their clients. Visit us online to join our community, gain access to valuable member-only benefits or learn about our PFP certificate program.

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