When I turned 65, I gathered my courage and posted about it on LinkedIn. I also wrote about how women in my programs have told me they feel about reaching their own milestone stage and wanting a modern retirement. That post generated thousands of views, public comments, private messages and was widely shared.
In this blog, I’d like to expand on my LinkedIn post and share with you the conversations and experiences I’ve had — that has led me to contemplate outdated language. And, how we can better talk the walk of beginning a modern retirement.
Words Matter
People often tell me that I don’t look my age. To this, I feel compelled to reply, “This is what 65 looks like.” I actually consider myself middle-age. And, although I’m pro-aging, I don’t consider myself a senior either. Like others of my generation, I’m retiring to something new. I’m now a modern retirement coach and I know that language matters.
Language is a powerful tool that extends far beyond communication. It plays a crucial role in constructing meaning. And, it exerts a significant influence on our mindset. Its impact is profound, capable of shaping our thoughts and moulding our perspective.
These experiences have spurred me on to think deeply about the influence of outdated language on our self-perception, as we transition out of our careers. I’d like to propose here some alternative language that more accurately reflects our generation, who are navigating a new stage of life. I hope these words serve as a source of inspiration for you as well.
This is Not Our Parents’ Retirement
According to the authors of The 100-Year Life, it’s time to plan and live our lives based on stage, not age. They say that conventional thinking that categorizes people based on age is limiting and outdated. Instead, they encourage us to define ourselves by our personal journeys and aspirations, regardless of our chronological age.
Even so, it can be disheartening how to respond to questions like:
- What do you do?
- Are you retired?
When someone asked me if I was retired soon after I left my career, I was taken aback and didn’t know what to say. I didn’t see myself at the finish line. I struggled to find the right words to respond to what I was doing at this stage of my life.
Definition of Modern Retirement
Motivated by the absence of relevant language to describe retirement in the 21st century, I’ve developed my own definition.
Women who work with me love this definition. It’s inspiring. It replaces the outdated concept of retiring from with retiring to. It implies that things are different now and we’re moving forward to live our best life in our next chapter and thrive.
How to Refer to Your Modern Retirement Journey
I’ve also been thinking about other ways to highlight language that can light the way at the beginning of our retirement journey. With that in mind, here are 8 inspiring words you can use to describe where you are in your modern retirement journey.
I’m reveling, rejuvenating, reviewing, recalibrating, reclaiming, redesigning, reorienting and/or rewiring. These words are also guaranteed conversation starters, if you wish to share your journey with others.
You may have noticed I didn’t mention reinventing. That’s because many women tell me it’s just too overwhelming to contemplate when you’re initially coming off a high stress career. But if you wish, feel free to claim that word, too.
Benefits of Having the Right Words
It Shapes Perceptions
The language you use can shape how you think about your options for what’s next. Outdated words can inadvertently create negative associations, while fresh language can open up new, positive possibilities.
It Contributes to Your Identity
This is where the power of language percolates. Using future-facing language contributes to you redefining yourself beyond your career.
It’s Empowering
Last but not least, language emphasizes possibilities, growth, and engagement to inspire you during this transition, and generate more enthusiasm for what lies ahead.
Let’s Start More Meaningful Conversations
I also want to encourage you to lead by example and use more inclusive language in place of the standard, “What do you do?” Try asking questions like, “How has your week been?” or “What’s on your mind?” This simple shift redirects the focus away from defining people by their work, and paves the way for more inclusive and engaging conversations.
This is Your Time
As you embark on your journey into Modern Retirement, remember that language can be your ally. It has the power to shape your perceptions, empower transitions and convey your identify beyond your career. I encourage you to embrace thoughtful communication and engage in meaningful conversations that describe the richness of beginning your next chapter.
Curious about your thoughts and ideas. Would love to hear from you. Click here to be taken to the contact form where you can leave me a message.
