The Psychology of Retirement, Ep #74
Description
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Most retirement planning tends to focus on the financial side, but on this episode of Upthinking Finance™, we welcome Dr. Sara Yogev, clinical psychologist and author of “A Couple’s Guide to Happy Retirement and Aging.” We’re digging into the often-overlooked emotional and psychological aspects of transitioning into retirement.
Drawing on over 30 years of experience, Dr. Yogev unpacks why psychological preparation is just as important as financial security, and sometimes even more challenging. We explore why retirement represents one of life’s biggest transitions, the stages most people experience, and the surprises that can catch even the most financially savvy off guard.
Dr. Yogev offers practical advice on how to mentally prepare for retirement, maintain purpose and connection, establish a routine that brings true satisfaction, and navigate changes within relationships.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
- Feeling inadequate without a career identity [06:40 ]
- Focus on increasing "joy span" for successful aging and retirement [11:48 ]
- Diversify your social portfolio [16:01 ]
- How to balance time alone, together as a couple, and with family [18:16 ]
- Be adaptable and open to change in family connections and expectations [21:59 ]
- Harmonizing post-retirement relationships [27:52 ]
- Gradually incorporate big changes, like relocating for a smoother transition [35:10 ]
- Retirement requires more mental as well as financial preparation [39:09 ]
Preparing for the Psychological Transition to Retirement
Most financial conversations about retirement revolve around money—accumulating enough savings, securing income, and ensuring a comfortable lifestyle. Yet, as Dr. Sara Yogev, clinical psychologist and author of “A Couple’s Guide to Happy Retirement and Aging”, points out, there’s a world beyond spreadsheets and investment portfolios.
The emotional, mental, and relational challenges that come with stepping out of the workforce are just as critical to address as the financial ones. People really neglect psychological planning and preparation for retirement.
They think, “Oh, if I have enough money, it’s fine.” But considering that retirement can last anywhere from one-third to one-fourth of your life, ignoring the psychological aspects can lead to dissatisfaction and discord—even for those who are financially secure.
Navigating the Emotional Landscape
Retirement, like any major life transition, comes in stages. The initial honeymoon phase can last from six months to two years before giving way to a stage of disenchantment. Here, retirees might grapple with the loss of work-based identity and purpose.
For many, professional life was more than a source of income—it was a wellspring of meaning, structure, and community. And when these roles fall away, so too can one’s sense of self. Work often defines who we are. It’s our identity, a way to feel useful and productive, and effective. And when that is gone, how do you replace it?
Preparing emotionally for retirement, therefore, is about more than intellectual awareness that change is coming; it's about proactive exploration of what brings satisfaction, joy, and connection outside of one’s career.
Creating Your New Routine and Identity
One of Dr. Yogev’s central recommendations is for pre-retirees to spend time thinking about their future lives in greater detail: “What’s my day, what’s my week, what’s my month, what’s my year going to look like?” Constructing a satisfying routine is crucial for well-being. This might mean reengaging with hobbies or volunteering for causes close to your heart.
She introduces the concept of “joyspan”—the idea of focusing not just on longevity, but on maximizing the time spent in contentment and fulfillment. Engage in activities that give you satisfaction regardless of the outcome. Even if you’re not going to become a concert pianist, you might still find deep joy in learning to play for your own enjoyment.
Purpose, too, is a key ingredient in successful aging. Studies have shown that people with a sense of purpose live longer and happier. For some, this means giving back or deepening skills; for others, it may simply be about staying curious and engaged.
Relationships, Routines, and the New Dynamics of Home
Retirement doesn’t just affect the individual; it reshapes couple dynamics, friendships, and family ties. Dr. Yogev highlights three main areas where friction often arises for couples: time together versus apart, division of household labor, and money management.
Couples who looked forward to spending time together might find their expectations suddenly out of sync, leading to misunderstandings or even the phenomenon known in Japan as “retired husband syndrome.”
Friendships, too, can shift as colleagues fade from the picture and adult children and grandchildren’s lives grow busier. Dr. Yogev stresses the importance of diversifying your “social portfolio” and remaining open to new connections, activities, and even living arrangements, such as trying out a new city for an extended stay before a full relocation.
A successful retirement is as much a psychological and relational journey as a financial one. By preparing emotionally, staying open to growth, nurturing relationships, and crafting satisfying routines, you can enter retirement not just with security, but with vitality and meaning.
Dr. Sara Yogev is not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial or Capital Investment Advisers.
Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial. A registered investment advisor. Member FINRA & SIPC.
The financial professionals associated with LPL Financial may discuss and/or transact business only with residents of the states in which they are properly registered or licensed. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident of any other state.
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