“I’m an extrovert – I recharge by being around others.”  “I’m an introvert, I need quiet time by myself to reflect and recharge.”

It’s not really that black-and-white. Each of us exists on a spectrum of personality tendencies. Still, I’ve been thinking that there are some specific things that the introvert in us should consider when planning for winding down our careers.

Phasing into retirement can be particularly beneficial for introverts as it allows them to transition from their career to retirement in a way that better aligns with their personality traits and preferences.

It starts by allowing for a gradual adjustment to a new lifestyle. Where we value our routine and perhaps feel uncomfortable with abrupt changes, the notion of a phased retirement allows us to ‘dip a toe into the water’ and then pause for reflection along the way.

A phased retirement also provides time for reflection; we can step back from our careers a little at a time and create space to think.  We can mull over our goals and what we want to achieve in our retirement.  Think of it as stepping away from a fun, but noisy and hectic party (i.e. work) into a quieter environment where you can really think!

A by-product of these benefits is that your stress levels should also significantly decrease.  You’ll be in an environment that’s more to your liking more often because you’ll have the freedom to choose.  Less anxiety also leads to better health and a more positive outlook overall.

Finally, a phased retirement affords you more time to be with a tight social circle of family or friends to explore and discuss the lifestyle changes you’re encountering.  Introverts are often deep thinkers and can benefit from sharing their thoughts and hearing other perspectives.

And as the deep thinkers that you are, wherever you are on the introvert spectrum, staging your retirement process will allow you the time and freedom to reflect and adjust to the changes.