Exploring Purpose and Passion: Why Retirement Doesn’t Always Mean the End of Work

Retirement is often seen as the ultimate goal—a chance to finally unwind after decades of hard work. But for many, the reality of retirement comes with unexpected challenges, like a sense of lost purpose or even feelings of loneliness. As Sara Ellis Conant, executive coach for recent retirees, explains, these emotions are not uncommon and can often lead people to “unretire” by pursuing new ventures that bring fulfillment.

In a recent PBS Next Avenue article, Sara shared stories of clients who have embraced exciting second acts in retirement. From a financial services professional heading to rabbinical school, to an investment manager opening a wellness resort, and a retired chemist turned wedding photographer, these inspiring individuals illustrate the diverse paths retirees are taking to align their work with their passions. Some have even ventured into unique fields like birth or death doulas, reflecting a growing desire to find purpose through work that resonates deeply.

“After retirement, people usually do some soul searching,” Sara says. “They ask themselves, what do I really want to do or be now? Usually, it’s something deeply meaningful if they didn’t have that in their career.”

Taking Time to Reflect  

Sara advises her soon-to-retire clients to resist rushing into big decisions. Instead, she encourages taking the first year of retirement to unwind, reflect, and adjust to the new rhythm of life. For many, this transitional period is vital for gaining clarity and reimagining what a fulfilling future might look like. “Unless there’s a financial need, just get used to it,” Sara says. “Take the time to soul search and figure out what you want.”

Reflecting on life’s highlights can help retirees identify meaningful opportunities. Sara often guides her clients through exercises that involve thinking back on their lives in five-year increments. By uncovering patterns of joy and satisfaction, retirees can pinpoint activities or endeavors that align with their values and aspirations.

Intentionality in the Next Chapter  

Whether driven by financial necessity or the desire for meaningful contribution, the key to unretirement is intentionality. Many retirees find that part-time opportunities or consulting roles strike the perfect balance between professional engagement and personal priorities like family, hobbies, and travel. Others choose to embrace entirely new career paths, inspired by interests they may not have had the chance to pursue earlier in life.

“Retirement can be lonely,” Sara notes, “and reflecting on the past is an important way to create the future.” This intentional reflection can turn the retirement years into an empowering and fulfilling chapter rather than an ending.

For those considering a return to work, Sara emphasizes that success isn’t necessarily about going back to a traditional role. Instead, it’s about exploring what has brought joy in the past and integrating those elements into the next phase of life. By approaching retirement with thoughtfulness, retirees can create a future filled with purpose and passion.To read the full PBS Next Avenue article, Why Do People Unretire?, featuring more insights from Sara Ellis Conant, click here.

Ready to explore your next chapter? At a)plan coaching, we help individuals navigate transitions like retirement and create a plan that aligns with your values and dreams.