Designing the Life You Want
I work with clients experiencing all sorts of major professional and personal transitions. One of the most significant transitions many people will experience is entering retirement. Like any other new chapter of life, this change presents a wonderful opportunity to design the life that you actually want.
Recently, I got to sit down with Jude Wilson, CWS®, MBA, Chief Financial Strategist at Centrus Financial Strategies, on his podcast The Roth Guy. With over 25 years in retirement planning and credentials that include an MBA and the Certified Wealth Strategist (CWS®) designation, Jude brings both the numbers and the heart to the retirement conversation.
We dove into something I believe deeply: retirement isn’t a finish line—it’s a turning point. We explored the question, “who are you when your job no longer defines your day?” It’s not just about having time—it’s about making that time meaningful.
Asking, “What Do I Want?”
One of the first things Jude and I discussed is the power of asking yourself, “What do I want?” It seems simple—but with decades spent following someone else’s calendar, that question can feel revolutionary. Together, we unpacked how critical it is to shift from “What’s due today?” to “What do I want today?” and how that shift sets the tone for a life designed, not drifted.
Learning to Create Rhythms
Without a work schedule, there’s freedom—and a vacuum waiting to be filled. So I told Jude about the importance of creating rhythms in your life. We all need daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual rhythms to give our lives structure and a healthy cadence.
By building these into your calendar now, regardless of whether or not retirement is on the horizon —you’re practicing the habit of a life rich with intention. These rhythms go far beyond productivity—they help to define your identity now that "achievement" looks different.
Aligning with Your Significant Other(s)
Retirement isn’t solo. We all have significant relationships in our lives that will be impacted by major life changes. Jude and I talked about the importance of clear, compassionate communication with your partner or closest relationships. A similar conversation could be had with other family members or close friends with whom you spend a lot of your time. Intentionally negotiating time isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Different people have different needs when it comes to time spent together and time spent separately pursuing what you enjoy. Planning this openly ensures that everyone feel supported—and that your rhythms are in harmony, not competition.
From Achievement to Fulfillment
So many of us have been taught that our work determines our value. Retirement is a chance to shed the “achievement mindset” and pursue things that are the most meaningful to us.
Who matters most now? (Hint: maybe that includes you.)
Build your calendar around what brings you alive—not what the world expects.
Talk with your partner or other significant relationships about how you want to spend time, both together and apart.
Design your retirement like a life worth living—because it is.
I’d love to hear what rhythms and questions are emerging for you.
