Posted in Triplett & Carothers on December 2, 2025

A recent report found the average retirement age in the U.S. is 62, while another survey found that 54% of people want to live to 100. That’s potentially 30 or 40 years of post-career life — a span that deserves as much planning and care as your working years.

While many plan for the financial effects of retirement, it’s equally important to explore how not working will change your sense of identity, your daily rhythm and your social relationships.

Finances are only the start

Money is always the first concern in retirement. A recent Allianz Life survey found that 62% of adults with either at least $150,000 in investable assets or an annual household income of $50,000 (single)/$75,000 (married/partnered) worry they’ll run out of money in retirement. Getting professional advice early can make a difference; it helps that about two-thirds of private-sector workers have access to retirement plans such as 401(k)s.

But financial preparation is only one piece of the puzzle. For many people, retirement raises deeper questions: Who am I without my job? What’s my purpose now? The shift from “I’m a high school teacher” or “I’m a CFO” to “I’m retired” can feel like an identity loss, especially in a culture where what we do often defines us.

Sometimes, staying lightly connected to your professional life can help. That might mean mentoring younger colleagues, staying on in a part-time or volunteer capacity, or doing project-based consulting work. For some, retirement opens the door to trying new semiprofessional activities, such as volunteering at a nonprofit, starting a small business, or offering coaching and consulting services.

The specific activity matters less than finding something that keeps you feeling purposeful and engaged.

Social connections are vital

There’s an old saying: In retirement, there’s a lot of day at the end of the day. Many retirees miss the small, daily connections that came with office life — coffee chats, hallway conversations, shared goals. But retirement shouldn’t mean your calendar is empty. It should instead mean that you have more control over what fills your days.

Building a postretirement routine that includes socializing is important for physical, mental and emotional health. Many communities offer support, from local libraries that host cultural programs to senior center gatherings to nonprofit events. If you don’t find what you need locally, look online for virtual groups or learning programs.

You may also choose to engage in nonprofessional pursuits such as hobbies or adult learning. Travel can also bring meaning, whether it is simply for pleasure or tied to cultural or educational goals.

Retirement planning encompasses having both money and a vision for how you want to spend it.

Reach out to Roz Carothers and her team at Triplett & Carothers to learn more.

©2025