Finding Our Way: Conversations on Life After Work

Finding Our Way- Net, Stef, Shel
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Three sisters, three retirements, one messy, meaningful journey. After 30+ years in their careers, three sisters explore the mystery of what to do in retirement. While many plan financially, few prepare for the emotional and purpose-driven side of life after work — a stage that can last decades. Without a plan, retirement can bring frustration or isolation. Join the sisters as they talk about transitioning from full-time work, rediscovering passions and values, and building a fulfilling next chapter.

Episodes

  1. May 25

    Episode 10 - The 5 Steps to Rediscover Your Purpose After 50

    Retirement isn't just about leaving a career; it's about discovering and reconnecting with your authentic self. This episode explores how to embrace your current passions, core values, and evolving identity post-retirement. Main Topics Covered: The importance of redefining your identity after retirement Exercises to reconnect with your current self, passions, and strengths Reflection tools like creating a personal memoir and personality assessments How to identify what truly makes you happy, motivated, and engaged Practical tips for embracing change and finding purpose In this episode: Discusses Marianne's three-step process to focus on what you do well, your purpose, and opportunities to implement your skills Explores five key areas: personality, interests, strengths, skills, and motivators Shares personal experiences from journaling, creating memoirs, and visualizing life as a journey with exits Emphasizes the significance of understanding your strengths, such as listening, loyalty, and organizational skills Offers exercises like personality trait selection and interest reflection to identify what brings joy and fulfillment Highlights the importance of self-compassion and honest reflection during this transformative phase  The Happiness Portfolio for Retirement by Marianne Osher Note: The journey of self-discovery can be emotional and deep. Take your time, be kind to yourself, and remember that every step you take is progress toward a fulfilling retirement life. Connect with the Hosts: findingourwaypodcast1@gmail.com

    32 min

  2. May 11

    Episode 9- Finding New Beginnings in Retirement

    Retirement is a time of profound change and endless possibilities. In this episode, three sisters share insights from expert Marianne Osher’s 'The Happiness Portfolio for Retirement,' discussing how retirees can approach this chapter of life with intentionality, flexibility, and creativity to find purpose and fulfillment.The concept of endless possibilities in retirement and how to navigate feeling overwhelmed versus liberated. This episode encourages retirees and pre-retirees to reflect on their life’s baggage, explore various paths, and craft a compelling vision for their future. Whether you prefer a structured plan or spontaneous adventures, embracing experimentation and visualization can lead to a more joyful, authentic retirement. Exploring six different retirement paths: continuers, easy gliders, adventurers, searchers, involved spectators, and retreaters. The importance of self-awareness in choosing paths, experimenting, and integrating different approaches. Repacking your mental and emotional baggage—reevaluating beliefs, habits, and relationships that no longer serve you. Developing a vision board to clarify your future goals, activate your subconscious, and stay motivated. How to balance structure and spontaneity in retirement for a fulfilling lifestyle. The significance of community involvement, travel, hobbies, and personal growth as part of your retirement vision. Reimagining your identity—shifting from a career-focused mindset to one rooted in joy, purpose, and self-care. The role of mindfulness, living intentionally, and celebrating small wins during this transition. Practical exercises including visualizing your ideal future and reassessing your baggage The Happiness Portfolio for Retirement by Marianne Osher The Art of Possibility by Rosam Stone Zander & Benjamin Zander The Artist's Way series by Julia Cameron

    27 min

  3. Apr 30

    Episode 8- It's time for Discovery

    Exploring the journey of retirement as a time for discovery, purpose, and self-reflection, this episode features a candid conversation among three sisters navigating life after work. From reconnecting with passions and building confidence to planning for the future, they share insights, exercises, and strategies to embrace this transformational phase. In this episode: Retirement as a time for self-discovery and renewal The importance of connecting with passions and hobbies from the past Strategies for managing uncertainty and transition fears The significance of creating a list of interests and inspirations How mindset and support influence the retirement experience Practical exercises to clarify goals and passions Insights from Mary Ann Osher’s The Happiness Portfolio for Retirement The benefits of reflection for a fulfilling retirement journey wayResources & Links: The Happiness Portfolio for Retirement by Mary Ann Osher Nancy Schalashberg’s book, Overwhelmed, Coping with Life’s Ups and Downs  References: 1.        Oesher, Marianne T., “Your Happiness Portfolio® For Retirement, It’s Not About the Money!” 2019. 2. Schlossberg, Nancy EdD, “Overwhelmed. Coping with Life’s Ups and Downs.”  Links: “Your Happiness Portfolio® For Retirement, It’s Not About the Money!” workbook, go to RetireandBeHappy.com/workbook/

    28 min

  4. Apr 13

    Episode 7- Letting Go of the Past for a Fulfilling Retirement Journey

    In this episode, we explore the emotional and practical aspects of letting go of your previous career identity to embrace a new chapter in life. Join us as we discuss how to navigate change, shed emotional baggage, and find purpose after retirement. The importance of releasing your former professional identity How to accept the loss of organizational power and perks Overcoming fears and emotional attachment to the past Practical exercises to let go, including symbolic fire rituals The role of memories and creating new opportunities Recognizing job-related stressors that make letting go challenging Personal stories of growth and adjustment in retirement 00:00 - Introduction to the importance of letting go for a successful retirement00:24 - Overview of challenges faced when retiring and transitioning to a new life phase01:17 - The significance of releasing old identities and roles02:26 - Letting go of who you used to be—career identity and recognition03:14 - Impact of community environment on perceptions of your former career04:45 - The loss of authority, power, and perks after retirement07:21 - Guilt associated with no longer earning a paycheck08:36 - Maintaining personal traits and professional qualities post-retirement10:56 - Why holding on to the past can hinder emotional and physical health12:20 - Using memories to stay connected and transition into the unknown13:16 - The necessity of emotional growth through letting go15:18 - Strategies to trust in the process and release fear17:47 - Exercises for letting go: listing what to release and symbolic burning25:50 - Creative ways to say goodbye to the past, including talk, crumble, or burn lists26:39 - Humor and support, including "fireball" rituals and sharing with others27:05 - Encouragement to reflect and embrace the next chapter with joy Your Happiness Portfolio for Retirement by Mary Ann Usher (search for exact link) The Happiness Portfolio for Retirement: It’s Not About the Money by Mary-Ann T. Oshoor “Your Happiness Portfolio® For Retirement, It’s Not About the Money!” workbook, go to RetireandBeHappy.com/workbook/ Join us for next week's discussion on discovering new passions.

    28 min

  5. Mar 31

    Episode 6- Retirement Changes Everything

    This episode explores the emotional and psychological transitions into retirement, emphasizing the importance of understanding change, embracing discovery, and developing adaptability for a fulfilling retirement journey. key topics Emotional and psychological changes in retirement The phases of letting go, in-between, and new beginning The importance of adaptability and acceptance of change Strategies for finding purpose and fulfillment after retirement The role of social connections and self-awareness in retirement takeaways Understanding that transitions take time and self-compassion is essential Viewing retirement as a journey of discovery and growth The significance of letting go of the past to embrace the future Developing adaptability helps manage change more effectively The importance of balancing positive and negative aspects of change action items Reflect on your own transitions and what you've learned from them Practice self-compassion during periods of change Develop a personal plan for discovering new purpose in retirement Balance positive and negative aspects of change in your mindset Chapters 00:00 Navigating Retirement Transitions 04:21 Understanding Emotional Changes in Retirement 06:55 Phases of Letting Go and Embracing Change 13:17 The Importance of Adaptability 20:51 Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Challenges 34:15 Introduction to Retirement Planning 34:42 Exploring Trends: What the Numbers Reveal Your Happiness Portfolio for Retirement by Marion Osher Website Resources

    35 min

  6. Mar 16

    Episode 5-Navigating Retirement Challenges and Fears

    SummaryThis episode explores the emotional, social, and practical challenges faced during retirement, including identity loss, health concerns, downsizing, and coping strategies. Experts share insights and personal stories to help listeners navigate this significant life transition. Chapters 00:00 Facing Retirement Challenges 03:33 Navigating Identity and Relevance 06:10 The Importance of Structure in Retirement 08:30 Social Connections and Loneliness 10:58 Understanding Gray Divorce and Relationships 13:41 Mental Health Risks in Retirement 16:26 Addressing Baggage and Old Issues 18:46 Finding Value Beyond Work 21:12 Concluding Thoughts on Retirement 41:04 Introduction to Retirement Planning 41:31 Key Resources for Retirement 41:37 Personalizing Your Retirement Journey Finding Our Way Book and Workbook Marianne's strategies for retirement - Brain and Life Caring for aging loved ones - AARP Resources Resources & Links:

    42 min

  7. Mar 4

    Mindset Matters- Shaping Your Retirement Experience

    In this conversation, the hosts explore the importance of mindset in retirement, discussing the differences between fixed and growth mindsets. They emphasize the impact of mindset on retirement experiences and introduce self-reflection exercises to help listeners assess their own mindsets. The discussion also addresses common fears related to retirement and introduces the concept of the four L's of retirement: longevity, lifestyle, legacy, and liquidity. Through engaging dialogue, the hosts encourage listeners to reflect on their own retirement journeys and the mindsets that shape them. Takeaways Your mindset significantly influences your retirement experience. A fixed mindset can limit opportunities and growth. Growth mindset encourages exploration and positivity. Self-reflection exercises can reveal your current mindset. Awareness of fears can help in planning for retirement. The euphoric mindset can lead to unrealistic expectations. The gloom and doom mindset can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. It's important to assess your feelings about retirement regularly. The four L's of retirement include longevity, lifestyle, legacy, and liquidity. Engaging in discussions about retirement can foster growth and understanding. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Mindset in Retirement 07:06 Exploring Fixed and Growth Mindsets 12:59 Exercises for Mindset Awareness 17:08 Feelings About Retirement 19:54 Exploring Emotions Around Retirement 20:39 Financial Preparedness and Its Impact 21:11 Navigating Indecision and Transition 23:58 Addressing Fears of Retirement 27:53 Defining Personal Goals for Retirement 31:24 Reflecting on Growth and Future Aspirations 35:15 Listener Engagement and Broader Themes  References: 1.      Oesher, Marianne T., “Your Happiness Portfolio® For Retirement, It’s Note About the Money!” 2019.  Links: “Your Happiness Portfolio® For Retirement, It’s Note About the Money!” workbook, go to RetireandBeHappy.com/workbook/

    38 min

  8. Feb 22

    Episode 3- Journey Through Retirement: Stages & Paths

    Retirement is a transformative phase in life, filled with opportunities and challenges. In this episode of Finding Our Way, we explore the four stages of retirement as outlined in Marianne T.  Osher’s book, helping you understand how to navigate this new chapter with purpose and joy. Key topics - 5-10 bullets: The three acts of life: childhood, adulting, and retirement, with a focus on the long "third act" The four stages of retirement: honeymoon, re-engagement, downshifting, and old age The honeymoon phase: embracing freedom, enjoying leisure, and avoiding disenchantment The gloom and doom path: risks of regret, isolation, and depression without proper planning Re-engagement: living your best life, rediscovering passions, and balancing activity levels The importance of pacing oneself to prevent burnout during active retirement The shift to slower, more mindful living in the downshifting stage Preparing for advanced age: lifestyle choices that enhance quality of life and longevity The power of mindset and social connections in aging gracefully Practical strategies: small lifestyle changes, managing social calendars, and embracing learning at any age 1.      Oesher, Marianne T., “Your Happiness Portfolio® For Retirement, It’s Not About the Money!” 2019.  2.  Landry, Roger, “The Official Summary of Live Long, Die Short: Roger Landry,” Audiobook 2019.  Links: “Your Happiness Portfolio® For Retirement, It’s Not About the Money!” workbook, go to RetireandBeHappy.com/workbook/

    31 min

  9. Feb 2

    Episode 2 Retirement Today

    Retirement is no longer just a phase of life; it’s a dynamic journey filled with possibilities and challenges. In this blog post, we delve into the evolving concept of retirement, debunking common myths and exploring how modern retirees can craft fulfilling lives beyond their careers. Understanding Retirement Today:   The landscape of retirement has dramatically changed from what our grandparents experienced. In the podcast episode of "Finding Our Way, Conversations on Life After Work," Michelle, Annette, and Stephanie discuss how retirees today can expect to enjoy 20 to 30 years of life after work, thanks to advancements in healthcare and lifestyle choices. This shift means that retirement is no longer synonymous with idleness; instead, it’s an opportunity for personal growth and exploration. Debunking Retirement Myths:   One prevalent myth is that retirement is a time for rest and relaxation without any further engagement in life. Annette reflects on her grandparents’ retirement, highlighting how many retirees in the past simply stayed home and engaged in minimal activities. In contrast, today’s retirees are breaking stereotypes by staying active and engaged in various pursuits.  Another myth is that retirement is only for the financially secure. The hosts emphasize that people over 50 account for half of consumer spending in the United States. This statistic underscores the importance of recognizing the economic impact of older adults and the need for businesses to cater to this demographic. The Role of Personal Fulfillment:   Michelle introduces the book "The Happiness Portfolio for Retirement" by Mary-Ann T. Oshoor, which serves as a guide for retirees looking to design a fulfilling life. The book encourages readers to think beyond financial stability and to explore areas that contribute to their happiness. It includes exercises to help individuals develop their personal happiness portfolios, emphasizing that fulfillment can come from various sources, including hobbies, social interactions, and community involvement. The Importance of Community:   Community plays a significant role in the retirement experience. The hosts share anecdotes about their active older relatives and neighbors, noting how important social connections are for overall well-being. Engaging with a community not only combats loneliness but also provides opportunities for new friendships and shared interests.

    37 min

  10. Jan 14

    Episode 1 Welcome- Introduction of three sisters

    In this episode of Finding Our Way, the three sisters discuss the non-financial aspects of retirement, sharing their personal experiences and challenges. They explore the transition from work to retirement, the quest for purpose, the importance of socialization, and the pressure to define one's purpose in this new phase of life. The conversation emphasizes the need for personal growth, exploration, and the value of giving back to the community as they navigate their journeys in retirement. Takeaways Retirement brings challenges beyond financial considerations. Finding purpose in retirement can be daunting. Socialization decreases significantly after leaving the workforce. Many retirees struggle with the question, 'What will I do now?'. The pressure to define one's purpose can be overwhelming. Exploring new interests and hobbies is essential in retirement. Maintaining a growth mindset is crucial for personal development. Family and community involvement can provide fulfillment. Retirement can be a time for self-discovery and exploration. It's important to redefine what success and purpose mean in retirement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Life After Work 01:01 Personal Experiences with Retirement 05:21 Navigating the Transition 09:41 The Importance of Purpose 12:54 Finding Joy in Retirement 16:27 Redefining Purpose 20:33 Closing Thoughts and Future Topics Your comments and questions are encouraged.  Please send them to findingyourwaypodcast1@gmail.com

    22 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Three sisters, three retirements, one messy, meaningful journey. After 30+ years in their careers, three sisters explore the mystery of what to do in retirement. While many plan financially, few prepare for the emotional and purpose-driven side of life after work — a stage that can last decades. Without a plan, retirement can bring frustration or isolation. Join the sisters as they talk about transitioning from full-time work, rediscovering passions and values, and building a fulfilling next chapter.

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