Choosing to Reset

For years, we count down to retirement like it’s the final destination. But the truth is retirement is just the beginning of a brand-new chapter. On average, you will live at least 20 years in retirement.

After decades of routine, responsibility, a schedule, and being needed, the transition to retirement can feel both exciting and uncertain. Many retirees (myself included) are surprised by how much change comes emotionally, socially, and mentally.

This week I have heard from hundreds of people who are either just recently retired or considering retirement in the near future. After doing a lot of research and soul searching I created the PATH framework which is a simple acronym to think about before retiring. It is my hope that you have a retirement life with purpose, joy, and connection. I’m not a socialist, an economist, or a gerontologist. I’m just a retired grandmother who reads a lot and has her own personal experience with retirement.

It always helps me to have something that can help me remember the information and PATH does it for me here.

Here are a list questions for you, and your partner if you have one to consider.

Plan: What will the First Month, Six Months, and First Year Look Like?

Without a plan, it’s easy for the days to blur together. Even a loose outline can give structure and keep you energized. One of the followers said that to be happy her day needs bones and that is exactly how I am wired.

Ask yourself:

What will I do in the first month? (Hint: this might include rest and recovery and that is just fine! In fact that is what I did.) What do I want to try in the next six months? (We traveled to Alaska, bought an RV, visited state parks, and took some amazing day trips,) What kind of rhythm do I want for my days by the end of the first year?

Examples:

First month: Morning walks, declutter a closet, reconnect with a friend, take a middle of the week trip.

First six months: Travel somewhere new, take a class First year: Try new things to figure out what you want to do and what you don’t. It is powerful to be able to try something and decide it’s not for you, I would recommend attending a local group meeting that sounds interesting, building a daily wellness routine, using YouTube to learn a new skill.

Activities: What Interests or Inspires You?

This is your time to explore passions and rediscover parts of yourself that may have been on hold.

Make a list:

*What have I always wanted to try?

*What do I want to learn, make, or teach?

*What sounds fun—not just productive?

Ideas:

Creative hobbies: art, photography, writing, gardening Movement: walking groups, yoga, dancing, pickleball Learning: online classes, library events, local college programs Community: book clubs, faith groups, social meetups

Activities add energy and momentum to your days.

Team: Who is in your team? Who are the people in your circle? Your social life will definitely affect how you feel about retirement.

One of the biggest surprises of retirement? The shift in social connections.

Suddenly, you’re not surrounded by coworkers or students or customers. That can feel freeing but also very lonely.

Build your team:

Who do you want regular contact with? Are there friends you’d like to reconnect with? What groups or communities could you join?

Ideas:

Start a weekly coffee or lunch meet-up Join a club or community group Volunteer for a cause you care about Ask others to walk, garden, shop, or cook with you.

We are healthier, happier, and more fulfilled when we’re not doing life alone.

Healthy: In order to enjoy retirement to the fullest, it’s important to make sure you are healthy and able to enjoy it. How Will You Care for Your Body and Mind?

You’ve spent years taking care of everyone else so now it’s time to invest in your well-being.

Think about:

Daily movement (walking, stretching, strength training) Food that fuels (high-protein, high-fiber, colorful) Rest and recovery Mental health: optimism, gratitude, self-compassion Regular check-ups and preventive care

Small steps make a huge difference:

Walk 15–30 minutes a day Eat a protein-rich breakfast Try yoga or light strength training twice a week Practice gratitude, giving, prayer, meditation daily.

Health is the foundation for enjoying retirement.

I want you all to live your retirement as healthy as possible and for you to remain healthy and active as long as possible.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a PATH.

P – Plan

A – Activities

T – Team

H – Healthy

Whether you’re already retired or preparing to be, this simple framework can help you walk confidently into your next chapter with purpose and peace. Also hope it is a good talking point for you to have with your partner, spouse, or family.

Now it’s your turn:

📌 What’s one small step you can take this week toward your PATH?

Thanks to @wanderwomantrisha for making the printable.

I hope this gives you something to think about and helps your transition.

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Karen