Investing in Life

We often think of “retirement planning” only in terms of the financial factors that will provide us economic security in our retirement years. However, a successful and fulfilling retirement experience requires planning and preparation in all areas of life. Money can act as a tool for achieving goals in other areas of life, but financial security alone can not bring about happiness, good health, meaningful relationships and activities, life satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.

Eight Facets of Life

Our lives—both before and after retirement—are multifaceted. Therefore, we must consider how the transition to retirement will effect each of the Eight Facets of Life: 1. Learning, 2.Work, 3. Leisure. 4. Financial, 5. Health & Fitness, 6. Home & Location, 7. Relationships, and 8. Emotional & Spiritual.

It is important to seek growth and development in all facets of life throughout adulthood. Those who do will more likely find retirement to be a rich and rewarding experience. That is because--all along the way--they have been preparing for LIFE, not just preparing for retirement. These individuals have made an effort to do a good job of managing their personal resources and have invested their time, energy, and money in all areas of life.

Life is a Continuum

In addition, retirement should not be viewed as a single event, but rather as one of many transitions in a continuum of life experiences. Those who navigate successfully through other life transitions will likely have the same experience with retirement. The skills, values, interests, and attitudes they have accumulated in life’s journey will continue to serve them well in retirement. The secret is always having a “future focus” by acknowledging the impact of choices made today on life in the future.

Your Quality of Life

Quality of life means different things to different people—each person’s definition is unique. However, it is important to realize is that your life is multifaceted and that each facet contributes to the quality of life you experience. Each facet is an integral part of your “life portfolio” and your investments of time and energy are how you make that portfolio grow. Are you experiencing the “value” for your investment that you should expect? If not, it’s time to re-evaluate and re-balance your portfolio!

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