Depending on where you fall in the Gen X timeline, you could be getting closer and closer to that big work finish line.
If that’s the case, you’re probably seeing a lot of articles recommending that you take the time to figure out what you’re going to do when you don’t have any meetings on your calendar.
Ideally, that sounds like a good plan. The problem is that if you’re working a 9 to 5 (or more), you might not have a ton of time to explore your options. And while retirement is the goal, not knowing what you’re going to do might make you feel a little anxious.
Of course, many of us have things like travel on our bucket lists, but where most people have a difficult time adjusting is in the day-to-day. It’s a lot of time to fill.
Don’t panic. There are ways you can start testing out retirement activities that can still work with your current busy schedule.
Reflect on What You Enjoy (and What You Don’t)
Start by taking small moments to think about what makes you happy and engaged. Do you enjoy being around people, or do you prefer solo activities? Do you like structured schedules or flexibility? Even if you don’t have time to take on a new hobby now, making a list of activities that have interested you in the past (or that you’ve always wanted to try) can give you a starting point.
Quick Exercise: Keep a small notebook or digital note where you jot down things that bring you joy. Maybe you love visiting farmers’ markets on weekends, or perhaps you feel energized after a walk in nature. These small observations can help shape your retirement plan.
Consider ‘Bridge Activities’ Before Retirement
Even if you can’t fully engage in retirement activities now, you can start incorporating small steps toward them. For example:
- If you think you’d like to volunteer, sign up for a one-time event instead of committing to a regular schedule.
- If you’re considering an encore career or consulting work, take an online course or network with others in that field.
- If you want to travel more, start researching destinations and following travel blogs or forums for inspiration.
Test Drive Your Retirement Schedule on Weekends
One way to get a feel for your retirement lifestyle is by structuring a Saturday or Sunday the way you imagine your retirement days. Do you like waking up without an alarm? Do you want to spend the morning at a coffee shop reading? Would you enjoy a mid-day exercise class or lunch with a friend? Pay attention to what feels natural and fulfilling.
Think About Social Connections
Many Gen X women have built strong relationships through work and family obligations. But once those built-in interactions fade, you might find yourself missing connection.
- Are there friendships you’d like to strengthen before you retire?
- Would you enjoy joining a club, taking a class, or participating in a community group?
- Could you and your partner or close friends set a regular standing lunch or hobby date?
Prepare for the Mental Transition
Your identity may be deeply tied to your career. Many high-achieving women struggle with the idea of not being busy or productive every hour of the day. Consider ways to redefine success in retirement. Success might mean learning something new, maintaining good health, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life. If you’re worried about adjusting, working with a retirement coach or reading books on life transitions can help.
This blog isn’t meant to make retirement scary and I’m not encouraging you to have every moment of your free time planned. In fact, how you spend your time is naturally going to evolve over time.
However, planning ahead can help you avoid some difficult transitions that sometimes happen in retirement. A fulfilling retirement doesn’t just happen—it’s built with intention, even in the busiest seasons of life.
