I have just passed a significant milestone birthday, and it would be fair to say I am entering the so-called third stage of my career, the pre-retirement phase. I have absolutely no plans to give up coaching as I love what I do, but I find myself adjusting to a new rhythm of working, and career identity. Gone is the full-time slog, the constant hustle and fear of failure, replaced instead with a calmer, more balanced approach and a determination to try new things, whilst continuing to work and earn.

Research shows that many individuals in this stage of life contemplate reducing their workload, transitioning from full-time positions to more flexible or part-time roles. This shift can take many forms, such as consulting, freelancing, or pursuing entirely different fields that align more closely with personal passions and interests.

Deciding to step away from full-time work doesn’t mean closing the door on productivity or professional engagement. Instead, it’s about redefining what work looks like and how it fits into the broader tapestry of life. This change can offer numerous benefits, including reduced stress, more time for personal pursuits, and the opportunity to explore new avenues without the constraints of a traditional 9-to-5 job. In my case I now feel confident to provide third stage pre-retirement coaching as part of the Career Breakthrough offer.

Here's what I’ve learned

To start on the pre-retirement journey one needs to have a propensity for career adaptability. According to Savickas (2013) this comprises four resources: concern, control, curiosity, and confidence:

• Concern: planning, awareness, involvement, and preparation.

• Control: as decisiveness, assertiveness, discipline, and wilfulness.

• Curiosity: inquisitiveness, exploration, risk taking, and an inquiring approach.

• Confidence: is expressed as efficacy, problem solving, and industriousness.  

The four Cs will mean different things to different people but for me, while the word “concern” resonates little, I did plan, prepare and reflect for a year or so before making changes.  And I started to be curious, exploring fresh options early, as landing them takes time, culminating in my volunteering half a day a week at a women’s refuge.

One of the significant challenges in this transition is untangling our identities from our careers. For many, professional achievements and roles have been central to self-identity. Letting go of this can be daunting, but it’s also a chance to rediscover other aspects of ourselves. Embracing this change involves acknowledging that our worth isn’t solely tied to our job titles or career accomplishments.

Here are some strategies to help navigate the transition into the third-phase:

1. Plan ahead: Anticipate the changes and prepare for them. This might involve financial planning, exploring potential new career paths, or developing a timeline for gradually reducing work hours.

2. Be kind to yourself: Allow yourself to take days off without guilt. Understand that rest and downtime are crucial for overall well-being.

3. Create structure around the week: Even if you’re not working full-time, having a routine can provide a sense of purpose and stability. Designate certain days for specific activities, whether they’re related to work, hobbies, or exercise.

4. Stay curious and up-to-date: Keep learning and stay informed about your field or areas of interest. This not only keeps your mind sharp but also maintains your professional relevance.

5. Volunteer: Engaging in volunteer work can be incredibly fulfilling and allows you to contribute to causes you care about, providing a sense of purpose and community connection.

6. Experiment with old and new passions: Use this time to dive back into hobbies you may have set aside or explore new interests. This can be incredibly rejuvenating and lead to unexpected opportunities.

Embracing the Future

As I look forward, I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I remain open for business but on my terms and at a pace that allows for a richer, more balanced life.  

This milestone birthday marks not just the passage of time but the beginning of a new chapter. It’s a chance to redefine success, find joy in new endeavours, and maintain a vibrant, engaged life well into the future.