Finding Purpose in Retirement: An Encore Career for Whole-Person Well-Being

Retirement can be a thrilling chapter, yet for many, it brings a sense of emptiness. After years of work that define purpose, rhythm, and even self-worth, moving into retirement isn’t just about budgeting or relocating; it’s about building a new identity. For some, that might mean finding an “encore career”—work that doesn’t feel like work, a role that satisfies without the formalities of a traditional job. This is the kind of fulfilling pursuit that aligns with the deeper essence of retirement: living well in body, mind, heart, and spirit. Because when money is no longer the goal but a means, the end becomes something more profound—a life enriched with purpose and connection.

The Retirement Conundrum: What Happens After the “Big Switch-Off”?

Shaun Corbett’s experience, reported in this weekend’s Telegraph, reflects a common reality: leaving a vibrant career behind can feel like losing a part of yourself. After years at the helm of a successful business, retirement left him feeling adrift, even “worthless,” as he put it. Used to making decisions and feeling needed, he found the switch-off from daily demands left an unexpected void. Likewise, Amanda Lever, a former school business manager, had all the pieces lined up for a comfortable retirement but found herself missing that driving force behind her days. She realised that hobbies and social circles, though rewarding, didn’t provide the purposeful life she had envisioned.

These examples underscore a key challenge in retirement planning that often gets overlooked: the psychological transition. Financial planning alone doesn’t prepare you for the jarring change in identity and routine. Purpose, it turns out, is as critical as financial stability.

Purpose as the Heart of Retirement Well-being

True well-being in retirement goes beyond physical health or wealth management; it’s about feeling useful and connected. Whether it’s finding work that aligns with personal interests, volunteering, or engaging in lifelong learning, activities that offer purpose keep the spirit thriving. Christina Blair, for example, has found her post-retirement joy in a whirlwind of pursuits: from choir singing and Spanish classes to dance club and book groups. Her days are full, her life purposeful, and, notably, her transition was intentional and long-considered.

The key here is the concept of “encore careers”—second acts that keep the brain active, provide a sense of belonging, and continue the feeling of contribution. As we age, our focus often shifts to leaving a legacy and creating impact, and for many, this means work that aligns with their core values and contributes positively to society.

Building a New Chapter in Retirement: Where to Begin?

For those approaching retirement or already there, finding purpose may mean a bit of self-exploration. What gives you a reason to get up each day? For some, this might involve learning a new skill, taking on a part-time role, or volunteering in a meaningful capacity. Options like joining community groups, finding educational courses, or starting an encore career offer new connections and avenues for engagement.

Preparing for this phase ideally begins years in advance, much like financial planning. Purposeful retirement doesn’t just happen; it’s created. It might mean nurturing hobbies or exploring roles where you can apply your experience in fresh ways. As Shaun found when he returned to his first love—electrical work—a meaningful “retirement career” doesn’t have to be high-profile; it’s about staying connected and finding joy in contribution.

Encore Careers: How to Make Retirement Work for You

If you’re already retired and feeling the “big switch-off,” start small. You don’t need to dive into a new profession; sometimes, simple activities that engage your skills and interests can make all the difference. Consider volunteering, freelancing in a familiar field, mentoring younger professionals, or pursuing part-time work in a low-stress role. Not only do these options provide structure and connection, but they also offer a sense of achievement that’s vital to lifelong well-being.

For those who find joy in sharing wisdom and experiences, community-oriented roles like teaching, coaching, or advisory work often feel like a natural fit. They combine the satisfaction of giving back with the flexibility retirement affords. The goal is to create a rhythm that suits you—a blend of freedom and structure that keeps the mind sharp and the spirit fulfilled.

Planning Beyond Money: A Retirement for Body, Mind, Heart, and Spirit

To achieve a fulfilling retirement, it’s essential to look beyond finances. Money, while crucial, is only a means to an end—the real aim is a retirement that nourishes every part of your being. When planning, think about how you’ll stay physically active, mentally engaged, emotionally connected, and spiritually enriched. Finding purposeful work or engagement can help maintain this balance, offering the satisfaction of contribution without the burdens of career expectations.

After all, whole-person well-being—mind, body, heart, and spirit—is the true wealth we aim for in our later years. So, as you plan for retirement, consider not only the freedom it brings but also the purpose that sustains it. That, in essence, is the foundation of a life well-lived, from the very first day to the very last.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is purpose so important in retirement?

A: Purpose is essential because it gives us a reason to get up in the morning and feel that what we’re doing matters. It’s more than just filling time; it’s about feeling useful, connected, and motivated. When we plan for purpose, retirement becomes a new chapter of fulfilment, not just a slow drift into leisure. Purpose adds structure, joy, and meaning—vital ingredients for whole-person well-being, encompassing mind, body, heart, and spirit.

Q: How can I find my purpose after leaving the workforce?

A: Start by reflecting on what brings you joy and a sense of accomplishment. For some, it’s helping others, volunteering, or even returning to work in a new way—like part-time roles or an “encore career” that doesn’t feel like a job. Exploring hobbies, joining community groups, or mentoring others are all fantastic ways to keep purpose alive. The key is to stay curious, take small steps, and experiment until you find what lights you up. Retirement is a time for growth, just like any other stage of life!

Q: I’ve saved well for retirement, so why do I still feel like something’s missing?

A: Financial security is a foundation, but it’s only one piece of a meaningful retirement. Once the initial excitement wears off, many find themselves asking, “What’s next?” That’s where purpose comes in—it’s the glue that holds our well-being together. Purposeful retirement goes beyond having enough money; it’s about finding activities, people, and goals that make us feel truly alive and valued.

Q: What is an “encore career,” and how is it different from traditional work?

A: An encore career is work you choose to do in retirement that brings joy and purpose. It often involves fewer hours, less pressure, and aligns closely with personal values or passions. Unlike traditional work, where the focus may be on climbing the ladder or financial gain, an encore career is about finding fulfilment. It’s ideal for those who want to contribute their skills but in a more flexible, enjoyable way.

Q: How early should I start planning for my purpose in retirement?

A: Ideally, start thinking about your post-work life well before retirement, around 10 to 15 years in advance if possible. Like any meaningful change, creating a purposeful retirement takes time and planning. Consider your interests, relationships, and what brings you joy and satisfaction now—then think about how you might carry those into your later years. With a bit of foresight, you can ease the transition and look forward to retirement as a time of renewal.

Q: Can hobbies alone fulfil my need for purpose in retirement?

A: Hobbies are a wonderful start, and for some, they’re enough. However, many find that hobbies alone don’t quite satisfy the deeper need for a sense of purpose and connection. Purpose often comes from giving back or being involved in a way that impacts others. This could mean volunteering, teaching, consulting, or joining community initiatives. The goal is to build a mix of activities that not only bring joy but also allow you to feel valued and connected to a broader purpose.

Q: What are the benefits of planning for a purposeful retirement beyond financial stability?

A: Beyond financial stability, purposeful planning offers a path to a life of meaning, social connection, and ongoing growth. It gives structure to your days, boosts mental well-being, and even supports physical health by encouraging activity and engagement. A purposeful retirement aligns with whole-person well-being: supporting not just your bank balance but your mind, body, heart, and spirit. It’s about living fully, not just getting by.

Q: How can I begin if I feel unsure about what I want to do in retirement?

A: Start small and stay open. Begin by listing activities or causes that spark your interest, and experiment with volunteer roles, clubs, or short-term commitments to explore what fits. Don’t worry about having a grand plan; retirement is a time to rediscover your interests at your own pace. Taking it one step at a time will help you uncover what brings satisfaction and joy, ultimately shaping a retirement that’s truly rewarding.

Q: Is it normal to feel uncertain or even anxious about retirement?

A: Absolutely, and you’re not alone. Many people find the transition to retirement challenging, especially when they’ve spent years in a fulfilling career. Adjusting to a new pace and lifestyle can take time. What helps is knowing that retirement can be an evolving journey where purpose grows gradually. Embracing the change, staying flexible, and being open to new opportunities can make it a positive, exciting transition.

These Q&As provide a supportive, actionable approach to planning for a purposeful retirement, guiding readers to reflect, explore, and create a fulfilling new chapter.