4 Tips for Finding True Purpose In Retirement

Feeling a sense of purpose is key to healthy aging. According to research, sense of purpose is associated with stronger relationships, more involvement in community, less loneliness, less chronic pain, and better mental and physical health. But some people find it difficult to find meaningful direction after retiring from work.

It can help to see retirement as an opportunity to focus on what matters to you and redefine your life on your terms. A few expert tips will help you find new energy and inspiration during this stage of your life.

1. Foster Relationships

“People are really at the core of meaning and purpose for many,” says Jennifer Rossano, MAPP (Master of Applied Positive Psychology), Project Director at the Milken Institute Center for the Future of Aging. But when you retire, you can experience a sense of social loss because you aren't part of a workplace team anymore or seeing other people every day.

It can help to create situations that help you feel that you matter to others. Focus on strengthening current friendships, relationships with family, and your connection with your spouse or partner if you have one. You may also want to get out into your community to make new connections.

Spending time with other people who are retired can allow you to talk through feelings about the transition and learn how others are navigating retirement and what they are doing to feel energized and engaged every day.

Rossano adds that connections with other generations can be very gratifying, too, so find ways to connect with people younger than you. You can pass on knowledge, skills, and values to younger people, and they can share their unique perspectives and experiences.

Consider looking for mentorship opportunities through an organization like CoGenerate.

2. Get Out Often

When you don’t have a work schedule, it can be tempting to just stay home. Ellen Cole, Ph.D., psychologist, positive aging expert, and author of 70 Candles: Women Thriving in their Eighth Decade, recommends fighting this instinct and making an effort to get out into your community.

It could be as simple as heading to the library regularly to pick up a new book or joining the local senior center or YMCA. Engaging with the world can make you feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself, which can make you feel more connected and remind you of all that you have to offer.

3. Find Ways to Make the World a Better Place

Research suggests that feeling like you are contributing to the world in some way is associated with feeling like you have meaning in your life.

“The idea behind meaning and purpose is making the world a better place,” says Cole. She believes that taking part in improving your community and the world should be part of everyone’s mission.

Think about what you believe would help your corner of the world. For example, you could volunteer on a local parade committee if you want to see more joy in your community, or work as an election inspector if you value civic engagement. (Cole has found these activities to bring meaning to her own life.)

Rossano recommends taking a self-assessment like the CliftonStrengths Assessment to help you learn more about yourself and get inspired on ways you can uniquely contribute to your community.

4. Know that You Aren't Bound to the Traditional Retirement Path

“We’re at a really interesting moment in time now with longer and healthier lives that it’s important we shouldn’t feel constrained by the traditional narrative and system,” says Rossano. You can make your retirement the ideal situation for you, and that might even include working in some way.

If you love what you’ve done in the past and feel passionate about it, you might consider contributing in a smaller capacity. Or if you find a new type of job that you’d like to do.

If you're interested in work, but want to stay mostly retired, try talking to an organization you’ve worked for or a different one about flexible arrangements, consulting, or other part-time work.

Feeling a sense of purpose in retirement can and should be different for everyone because we all find meaning in our own ways. The beauty of it is that you get to decide what comes next. Prioritize the activities that allow you to connect with others and contribute to your community, and you’re likely to feel more fulfilled.