The Importance of Purpose in Retirement
Over the years I’ve written and spoken extensively about the importance of purpose in retirement.
Even though there is conclusive evidence that having a sense of purpose is a critical predictor of both physical and mental health as we age, I still encounter retirees who report not having an underlying reason, intention, or goal which drives their motivation and direction.
Purpose represents a conscious decision to achieve a personally meaningful, long-term, and often positive impact. It acts as a “life task” or guiding force. Examples of purpose are:
- Family-focused: Being a source of love, strength, and wisdom and creating a legacy of values.
- Creative & artistic: Creating unique pieces of art that inspire beauty and expression in others.
- Service & community: Being a voice for the voiceless and drive positive change.
- Personal growth: Living courageously by seeking new adventures and continuously learning.
- Faith-based: Living a life centered on spiritual principles, spreading kindness and hope.
Why Purpose Matters
- Physical longevity: Research indicates that older adults with a high sense of purpose have lower mortality and a reduced risk of chronic illnesses.
- Cognitive protection: Maintaining a purpose-driven life can safeguard the brain against cognitive decline.
- Mental well-being: Purpose helps fill the void left by professional roles, reducing the risk of depression and aimlessness.
- Social connection: Purpose helps drive community involvement, which combats loneliness that frequently follows the loss of workplace social structures.
Practical Ways to Find New Purpose
- Redefine identity: Move beyond a job title by focusing on legacy and character.
- Experiment with avocations: Engage in disciplined activities that offer challenge and reward, such as volunteering, mentoring, or starting a business.
- Continuous learning: Keep one’s mind sharp by taking classes, workshops, or pursuing hobbies that require problem-solving.
- Routine building: Create a daily structure that includes physical movement, social interaction, and creative time to prevent the days from “blending together”.
Key questions to ask when finding purpose
- What are my deepest values?
- If I knew I could not fail, what would I do?
- What is the “why” behind my daily actions?
- What does the world need that I can provide?
- What would I want my legacy to be?
- What kind of person do I want to become?
For more information on finding purpose, and other important retirement topics, please visit: www.whencaniretire.ca and/or drop me a note.
Rick Atkinson (Mister Retirement), B. Com, MBA, CHRP, CMC, FDFS