Discover the power of viewing retirement as a rebirth instead of an ending with retirement coach Karen Carr.

When we hear the word “retirement,” many of us imagine a full stop—a conclusion to the long career we’ve built. However, if we shift our perspective, retirement can represent something far more inspiring: a new beginning. 

In this week’s episode of the “Retirement Revealed” podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Karen Carr, a retirement coach who turned a traumatic experience into a purpose-driven mission to help others navigate their own transformations. Her story is nothing short of remarkable and serves as a powerful reminder of what retirement can truly mean.

From Tragedy to Transformation

Karen’s journey begins at a critical juncture in her life. She was on the verge of significant personal and professional growth—preparing to embrace her role as a life coach while transitioning into empty-nester life. However, a devastating car accident in the middle of a blizzard derailed her plans.

Trapped in her vehicle, Karen experienced an explosion of emotions, from shock to profound relief that she had survived. This life-altering moment served as a wake-up call, forcing her to reassess her priorities and rediscover what truly mattered to her.

Although the physical recovery was grueling, involving broken ribs and limited mobility, Karen refused to let it define her. Instead of resigning to a conventional medical route, she sought holistic therapies that not only helped her heal but reignited her appreciation for life.

The “Jubilation” Years

Karen pointed out something really clever that stood out to me: the Spanish word for retirement is actually “jubilación.” It evokes a sense of celebration, of joy, a jubilee! This isn’t about fading away; it’s about embracing a new phase of life with enthusiasm.

Think about it: for many of us, retirement is the first time we truly have the freedom to choose how we spend our time. No more alarm clocks, no more commutes, no more bosses (well, maybe except for your spouse, haha!). It’s a chance to rediscover passions, explore new interests, and deepen relationships.

The Hidden Risks of Retirement

Karen’s perspective aligns closely with my approach to retirement planning. I often emphasize the importance of making sound financial decisions during this time, as one wrong move could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. But Karen sheds light on an equally critical aspect: the psychological and emotional challenges that arise during this transition.

Studies show that the first year of retirement is rivaled only by the first year of life in terms of vulnerability. Mortality rates spike unexpectedly, likely due to the loss of routine, identity, and purpose that many experience when they leave the workforce. Karen’s work focuses on helping people reimagine this phase as a “rebirth” rather than an end—an opportunity to create a fulfilling new chapter.

Maintaining a Hopeful Lens for Retirement

The freedom of retirement seems like a massive reward for many when they think about reaching the end of their career. For others, however, the freedom to explore passions and interests they never had time for during their working years can be overwhelming to the point of dread.

Karen shared a story about a client who spent the entire year before retirement working through an exercise we designed together. The result? They entered retirement with clarity and confidence, ready to embrace their “rebirth” with open arms.

She emphasized the importance of making intentional choices and seeing retirement not as a finish line, but as a blank canvas. Whether it’s pursuing creative endeavors, volunteering, or finally traveling to those dream destinations, the key is to align your actions with your values and passions.

A New Perspective

As Karen so beautifully put it, her accident was a turning point that divided her life into “before and after.” For many retirees, the moment they leave their careers can feel similarly momentous. By reframing this transition as an opportunity for growth and renewal, we can help ensure that the years ahead are not just lived, but truly embraced.

Make sure to listen to the whole episode and be inspired to embrace your “jubilación”!

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Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-revealed/id1488769337

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Additional Links:

• Revitalize Retirement Coaching – Karen Carr


• Facebook – Revitalize Retirement Coaching


• Contact Karen Carr:
  
  
  
  • 651.426.5123
  
  
  • karen@revitalizeretirement.com
  
  
  
  

Connect With Jeremy Keil:

• Keil Financial Partners


• LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil


• Facebook: Jeremy Keil


• LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners


• YouTube: Retirement Revealed


• Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team

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