Allworth financial advisor Darren Dindinger, MBA, CFP®, CRPC®, provides insights on how to build a fulfilling retirement by focusing on personal goals, creating routines, pursuing new learning opportunities, giving back, and prioritizing relationships.
Retirement isn’t about stepping away from work; it’s about stepping into a new chapter filled with purpose and enjoyment. After years of putting in the hours, it can feel strange to think about what’s next and how to spend your time. But creating a fulfilling retirement is entirely possible—and it starts with having clear goals and objectives that align with what genuinely matters to you.
It’s easy to assume that retirement is just about making sure your money lasts, but financial security is only part of the story. The real question is, what will make you feel fulfilled? Everyone’s answer to this will look a little different, but what matters is that you take time to get specific about your own goals.
Consider questions like:
Take time to think about what brings you joy and gives you a sense of purpose. Setting goals that tap into these areas will help shape a retirement that doesn’t just feel like an extended vacation, but a truly meaningful phase of life.
A lot of people don’t realize that retirement can feel a bit unstructured at first. After years of having a set routine, waking up without a clear agenda can feel unsettling. While it might be nice at first, eventually, most people find they need some structure to their day.
Creating a routine doesn’t mean packing your schedule, but having a basic framework can give your day a sense of purpose and direction. For instance:
A flexible routine will help you make the most of each day and give you a solid foundation to keep moving forward.
Just because your career has ended doesn’t mean your learning has to. Many people find a new sense of purpose in retirement by expanding their knowledge and skills in areas they didn’t have time to explore before. This could mean taking classes, joining a local book club, or attending workshops that inspire you.
Some ideas to consider:
Learning keeps your mind engaged and helps you stay connected with the world around you. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to see yourself grow, even after you’ve left the workplace.
One of the most fulfilling things you can do in retirement is find a way to give back. Whether you volunteer regularly or occasionally support causes close to your heart, giving back can bring a tremendous sense of purpose. Look for opportunities that feel meaningful to you, whether that’s mentoring younger professionals, getting involved in local community projects, or helping out at your favorite charity.
When we contribute our time, energy, or resources to something we care about, it adds a deeper layer of meaning to our lives. And it doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—even small gestures can make a difference. The key is finding something that aligns with your values and feels rewarding.
Retirement can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re used to the social aspects of work. But staying connected is crucial to feeling fulfilled. Make it a priority to nurture your relationships and invest time in family, friends, and your community. Schedule regular meet-ups, join clubs, or consider getting involved in a group that aligns with your interests.
Whether it’s weekly coffee dates, family dinners, or holiday gatherings, creating consistent opportunities to connect with the people who matter to you will help you feel grounded and fulfilled. Remember, retirement is as much about relationships as it is about financial stability.
Retirement doesn’t have to mean giving up work altogether. Many people today are embracing a “work optional” retirement, where they transition from working out of necessity to working for enjoyment. This could mean working fewer hours or choosing roles that offer the flexibility to pursue other interests and goals on your retirement list.
If work brings you satisfaction, don’t feel guilty about staying active in a flexible role—as long as it allows you to enjoy the full range of experiences you’ve planned for this stage of life.
As with any major decision, it’s a good idea to discuss the possibility of working in retirement with your spouse, as it will impact their experience too.
A fulfilling retirement isn’t just about leaving work behind; it’s about designing a life that brings you joy, purpose, and connection. By setting goals, building routines, exploring new learning opportunities, giving back, and staying socially connected, you’ll create a life that feels as rich and meaningful as any career ever could.
If you’re ready to start thinking about your own goals for retirement, or if you’d like to talk about the financial side of making these dreams possible, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you navigate this new chapter with confidence and clarity.