Why high achievers can feel lost in retirement, part 2.

Why do people who are high achievers at work often struggle in retired life, perhaps feeling lost and aimless?

We looked at this in an earlier article (see the link below) where we cited Relevance Deprivation Syndrome. Relevance Deprivation Syndrome may explain part of the problem. But there is a deeper question. 

It’s called Identity. Who are you now?

As a high achiever you spent decades building a professional identity. However, you become someone else in retirement and that’s because your identity has changed.

How can that be? Aren’t you still the same person you looked at in the mirror last year?

Well, yes and no. Physically yes, emotionally no.

If this topic resonates with you, why not send me a brief question about retirement (text me on 0409 116 766 or email me at jon@64plus.com.au) and I will personally reply within 24 hours.

As a high achiever, work may have been a critical part of your identity. You lived breathed and talked about it.

Once that part of your identity has been left behind then you have the task to re-define your identity. A future article will delve further.

Dr Jon Glass
Retirement Specialist and Coach

https://www.64plus.com.au/blog/2026/6/1/why-high-achievers-can-feel-lost-in-retirement