Emotional stages of retirement: Here’s what to expect and how to thrive
Retirement is a huge financial milestone, but it is also a process: one that comes with a hidden emotional journey that can be just as significant. Understanding the psychological stages of retirement can help you prepare more fully for this life transition. Let me introduce you to the five common stages that surround this exciting life event and a few books to help you think through each one.
1. Pre-retirement (planning and anticipation)
What is it? The period before retirement where expectations and financial preparation take center stage. You may begin disengaging from long-term work projects. You have a more urgent need to figure out exactly how all this is going to work: cash flow, health care and investment changes.
What to do? Create detailed versions of your previous daydreams about retirement. If travel has always been part of the picture, begin thinking seriously about places, timelines and budgets. Consider a transitional retirement path of part-time or consulting work. It allows you to ease into your new lifestyle and build new habits as old ones fade out. Your employer and coworkers can better prepare for your absence as you slowly phase out of participation at work.
If you have not already, engage with a financial planner to confirm you are on track, avoid common pitfalls and gain clarity on your retirement income strategy. Establish a relationship with a planner that feels like a long-term partner or coach, over one focused on just the financial transactions of your retirement.
Book: “How to Retire Happy, Wild and Free” by Ernie J. Zelinski
2. The honeymoon phase
What is it? The freedom that comes in the early months of retirement is exciting. It may feel a bit like summer break from school. You may have some surprises, too. You now have a good deal of free time, but your loved ones may still be tethered to their regular schedules. You’ll need to find a balance that allows you to enjoy your freedom without being disappointed by their potential unavailability.
What to do? Enjoy existing hobbies and try out new things. Be accepting if you find that you don’t love everything you thought you would. Try keeping a journal to record your thoughts and feelings about new things and brainstorm new ideas of what to try next.
Book: “The Power of Fun” by Catherine Price
3. Disenchantment
What is it? A period when novelty fades and you may feel bored, aimless or disappointed. You may be missing a sense of identity or purpose that you once enjoyed in your career. Don’t overact here. This is very normal and you can reset with some reflection and re-evaluation.
What to do? Refer back to your journal from the Honeymoon Phase and reconnect with the activities/people/places that sparked passion or joy. Be honest with yourself about what may be missing in your life right now. You may also consider part-time work, volunteering or new learning opportunities.
Book: “The New Retirementality” by Mitch Anthony
4. Reorientation
What is it? The stage where you reassess and redefine what retirement means for you. Now that you have some retirement experience under your belt, you can build a more meaningful routine. Finding the right balance of leisure and purposeful activities and of independent and social activities will provide a renewed sense of self.
What to do? Create your new identity and routine, prioritizing wellness and connection. Settle into this phase while still keeping your mind open to new ideas.
Book: “Life Reimagined” by Richard J. Leider and Alan Webber
5. Stability (retirement routine)
What is it? A stage of acceptance and contentment with your new lifestyle. Life feels balanced and meaningful. You are spending time how you want and focusing on what matters to you most. You have a comfortable routine with some excitement sprinkled in.
What to do? Stay engaged socially and mentally, keep finances flexible and embrace aging with intention.
Book: “Honest Aging” by Dr. Rosanne Leipzig
Retirement isn’t a finish line — it’s a new chapter. It is both financial and emotional and each needs your attention for your retirement to be filled with joy, purpose and peace of mind.
Jennifer Griffis, CFP, APMA is founder and president of Integrity Wealth Management with offices in Missouri and Kansas and is a member of the Financial Planning Association of Greater Kansas City chapter. She provides financial planning and investment management through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth.
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This story was originally published April 16, 2025 at 5:00 AM.