What’s your name? Where are you from? And what’s your major?

When you went away to college you had a chance to reinvent yourself. You were meeting people who didn’t know your history, embracing new experiences, trying out new food and routines, etc.  Well here’s some good news; in retirement you have the same possibility to reinvent yourself and grow.

My wife and I met in college where both of us studied abroad. She’s from a small midwestern town of around 10,000 people but was able to spend a semester studying in Germany and then traveled all around Europe, learning new cultures and experiencing lots of personal growth.

During your working life you probably had an identity that was largely tied to your career.  Accountant. Sales executive. Teacher or administrator. Your newfound freedom allows you to break free from constraints and rewrite your life’s narrative. Whether it’s exploring artistic passions you tucked away for “later,” traveling the world or your local region, or reconnecting with old friends and making new ones, retirement lets you pursue what truly excites you.

Consider what’s possible. Retirement opens doors to forge new friendships and deepen existing connections. Join clubs, volunteer in your community, or attend social gatherings. It’s also the perfect time to prioritize your health. Embrace a new fitness routine, practice mindfulness, or adopt a healthier diet. By focusing on self-care and rejuvenation, you’ll enhance your quality of life and create a foundation for a vibrant retirement journey.

Embrace change, discover and pursue your passions, cultivate meaningful connections, prioritize your health, and never stop learning. Each of these will give you a new perspective and allow you to see new possibilities and continue to reinvent yourself.