We can learn a lot about having a productive retirement from those who are called to a vocation of religious service.  Pastors, rabbis, priests, nuns and others can have a career – a vocation – that spans decades.  But they do ultimately retire – although they typically stay quite active and can offer a model for us to consider.

For example, while the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis mandates retirement at age 75, one priest I read about said that he, “Plans to keep busy and engaged.”  He mentioned doing some traveling that’s been put on hold for too long, and that he doesn’t plan to be bored.  He summed it up nicely saying, “I plan to keep busy, but not at the pace that I used to work.”

Retired clergy often alleviate the workload of active clergy.  They help out to allow the active cleric a break – maybe even time for a mini-vacation or retreat to recharge.  They also help in other ways that might be more fitting for us laypeople; they help by sharing their accumulated wisdom through mentorship and support.

Like the rest of us, some will find retirement challenging given the dramatic change in their schedules, while others might welcome it for the very same reason.  While retirement can be daunting, taking inspiration from those in religious communities can offer a refreshing perspective and guidance.  Here are some ways to embrace their approach:

Live simply – clergy in general often live modestly, prioritizing their spiritual and communal duties over material wealth.  Strive to adopt a less materialistic focus by decluttering, paring down possessions and prioritizing experiences over things.  This strips away the excess and allows you to focus on what truly brings you joy and peace.

Community first – religious leaders dedicate their lives to serving their communities. In retirements, we should mimic them and foster deeper connections with our family, friends, and local organizations. Volunteering can give us a renewed sense of purpose and keep us engaged.

Stay active – clergy often remain active within their communities well into retirement.  Emulate them by staying physically and mentally active.  Pursue new hobbies, join clubs or embrace a new skill or interest.  In addition, regular exercise, a healthy diet and adequate sleep contribute significantly to overall well-being. Many religious leaders follow disciplined daily routines – take an example from them.

Be financially prudent – while they don’t seem to be wanting for anything, clergy typically manage modest finances.  Similarly, ensure that you have a solid plan for retirement, spend well below your means, and focus on the non-financial rewards as I’ve mentioned elsewhere here.

Purposeful living – having a purpose in retirement is often cited as one of the healthiest ways to a fulfilling life.  Priests and others find purpose in their spiritual and communal responsibilities. Post-retirement, you should seek out new ways to find a purpose that’s meaningful to you. Whether it’s mentoring, engaging in creative pursuits, or contributing your time to causes you care about, find what keeps you motivated.

Retiring like our friends in the clergy is about simplicity, community, spirituality and purpose.  By integrating these values into your retirement, you can lead a more fulfilling and enriching life.