Soon after retiring, a vibrant, well-known, and respected business owner passed away recently due to a freak accident while celebrating a holiday weekend with her husband, daughters, and grandchildren at their family lake house. Not only was she uber successful, but she was also philanthropic and a pillar in her community.
Her two daughters, along with her husband, delivered beautiful eulogies at the memorial service, where attendance was standing room only. Her husband mentioned that she had recently retired. But he said, “She didn’t refer to it as retirement; she referred to it as ‘inspirement’ and raved about how she always did things that inspired her and others.” It’s a beautiful reminder that inspiration and purpose can continue to evolve, even after retirement.
I have heard many ways retirees replace the word “retirement.” However, hearing how she replaced it gave me pause. WOW! “ Inspirement.” What an awesome way to think about this next phase of life, whether it be finding new ways to inspire yourself or others.
After leaving a career where individuals are inspired and inspire others every day, it is common for retirees to feel that void as they transition into retirement. For anyone feeling this way and searching for ways to fill that space, here are thoughts and suggestions:
- Self-Reflection and Encouragement: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” – Steve Jobs – Co-founder of Apple.
- Reflect on what has brought you joy and fulfillment in the past.
- Encourage yourself to explore new passions and interests.
- Adopt a Growth Mindset: “Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.” – George Addair, minister and founder of the Omega Vector Foundation.
- Believe that your abilities and talents can grow with effort and experience.
- Stay open to learning new skills and embracing new challenges.
- Stay Open to Inspiration: “If you hear a voice within you say, ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” – Vincent van Gogh
- Let go of limiting thoughts and be open to unexpected sources of inspiration.
- Avoid the “yeah, buts” that prevent you from exploring new opportunities.
- Change Your Routine: “By changing nothing, nothing changes.” – Tony Robbins, American author and coach.
- Break out of your habits and try something new.
- Engage in activities you’ve always wanted to experience.
- Journal Your Thoughts: “Keeping a journal of what’s going on in your life is a good way to help you distill what’s important and what’s not.” – Martina Navratilova, Czech-American former professional tennis player.
- Use a blank journal to express your ideas and aspirations freely.
- Focus on your dreams without considering potential obstacles.
- Reconnect with Past Passions: “What lies behind you and what lies in front of you pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, American philosopher, poet, and abolitionist.
- Revisit activities and dreams that you may have set aside.
- Determine if these still hold meaning for you and pursue them.
- Build an Inspiring Community: “Do not allow people to dim your shine because they are blinded. Tell them to put some sunglasses on!” – Lady Gaga, American singer.
- Surround yourself with people who inspire you or share your interests.
- Learn from others who have successfully transitioned into a fulfilling retirement.
- Release the pressure to be inspired: “You don’t always need a plan. Sometimes you just need to breathe, trust, let go and see what happens.” – Mary Hale, New York Times best-selling author.
- It’s normal to feel uninspired or not know what inspires you. Do not judge yourself or feel guilty.
- Give yourself some grace and allow time for it to manifest naturally. Trust, breathe, let go, and see what happens.
Some days, we feel more inspired than others, and these days typically appear when you least expect them. Inspiring thoughts usually come from soul searching, listening to yourself, and practicing patience. This journey helps uncover purpose and joy and transforms your life into a more fulfilling and inspiring one.
“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, American philosopher.
