It’s always a good time to discover your unique purpose. Because it has been a while since I’ve written specifically about the transition to retirement, this post contains frequent references to retirement. However, it’s never too early or too late to find your unique purpose. You can even combine leisure with purpose as I mentioned in an earlier post “Leisure with purpose and meaning.”
What gives your life meaning?
If you are eagerly looking forward to retirement, you may not be giving your unique purpose much thought. Instead you may be dreaming of relaxing and doing all the things you have always wanted to do This is normal. However, you may soon discover you aren’t cut out for endless days of sameness and purposelessness.
If you knew your unique purpose and had already built a life based on your own personal interests, values, skills, and passions, you would be equipped to use your gifts for an additional 20 years or more. How will you spend your time?
• Identify your unique purpose in other stages of your life and work
• Write down the strengths, skills, and talents you used to make a difference in these stages of life
• Pinpoint where your passion and imagination are leading you now
• Devote time and attention to personal development
• Develop an action plan for achieving your next steps
• Invite others to join you on your journey
• Pause and reflect
What do you love to do?
I have learned that doing what you love is crucial for a successful life. It also gives you a clear sense of your unique purpose. It is obvious to me that teaching, counseling, and life coaching are what I love to do. These really reflect my values, give me purpose, and bring me joy. They also require that I continue to learn, grow, and challenge myself. What do you love to do that needs to be incorporated into your lifestyle right now or in your future retirement plans?
What’s next?
You may not be ready to identify your unique purpose. Take some time for reflection. Discover your passions, priorities, and preferences using the Dig Deeper questions in Ready To Retire? Successful Retirement Planning To Make The Best Of The Rest Of Your Life* and the Exercises in Where Will You Retire? A Retirement Guide And Exercises For Deciding Where To Retire, Buy A Second Home, Or Relocate.*
* affiliate links