On discovering your identity in retirement

In the world of theatre a mask conceals. It hides the actor’s face and intentions. But outside the theatre, we all wear masks too—at work, in social settings, even at home. So what does this have to do with retirement?

Retirement is a gift of time that allows self-reflection and a chance to remove our mask and learn more about ourselves. With the mask off, we begin to see our identity more clearly.

Here are just a few examples of what we might find:

1.  Social Circle: Without the social scaffolding of work, some retirees discover that their circle of friends is smaller than they imagined.

2.  Mental Void: Others realise that work provided the lion’s share of their mental stimulation—and now that it’s gone, they feel lost.

3.  Hobbies: For some, retirement brings an uncomfortable truth—they’ve never cultivated interests outside their job.

4.  Alpha People: And then there’s the high-achiever who, mask removed, clings to an intensity—filled retirement of relentless activity, as if afraid of stillness.

These discoveries - while they may be confronting - are a positive. They are invitations to treat your retirement as a canvas for re-fashioning your identity. And with the right guidance, it can become the most authentic chapter of your life.

As a retirement coach, I help people navigate this transition to retirement with clarity and confidence. I invite you to reach out to me at the website below.

Jon Glass – Retirement Coach
64plus.com.au