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.

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.

If these ideas resonate with you, you are very welcome to text me on 0409 116 766 for a brief obligation-free conversation. It may help you to think things through.

Dr Jon Glass
Retirement Specialist and Coach

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