Who and Where Do You Want to Be?

Where Do You Want to Be After 50?

The Forbes 50 Over 50 luncheon was yesterday, and it got me thinking about the question: Where do you want to be when you’re past 50?

When I was in my thirties, I never gave it much thought. I had too much energy to imagine slowing down or “retiring.” I’d seen what retirement did to my parents, and it wasn’t inspiring.

My mother was bored to death. My father, already a bit of a couch potato, became even more spud-like. I was estranged from my family then, and they lived in another state. From what I know now, my mother was lonely. Her closest friends didn’t want to travel to Pennsylvania, and she never built a new circle there. They’d moved to be closer to my sister, which ended up being at the center of our family’s falling out.

She passed not long after retiring.

Retirement is supposed to be “the best years of your life” — no more long commutes, no big responsibilities, just time to do what you love. But for so many, that dream never happens. There are more hours on the couch than exploring the world. The hobbies they once imagined never materialize. And healthy living often takes a backseat because, “Who cares? I’m retired.”

That’s why I don’t believe in retirement — I believe in second acts.

Years before retirement age, we should be asking: What’s next? Sitting on the couch and watching TV isn’t a plan. Whether it’s traveling, starting a business, learning an instrument, or mentoring others, your next chapter should be something meaningful that keeps you growing.

Of course, to live out those dreams, you need to make sure you’re financially prepared. Maybe you already have a 401(k) or investments — but will they be enough? As we age, diversification becomes essential. High-interest financial products, indexed IULs, and other stable options can help protect your hard-earned money while still giving you growth potential. The stock market can be great, but it also carries risk — and as we get older, that risk tolerance naturally changes.

My parents had enough to live on and decent coverage when my mom became ill, but not enough to live fully. I never wanted that for myself. Neither did my husband. So, we made conscious financial decisions early — and we don’t plan to “retire.” We plan to pivot. What I do now, I can do for life (metaphorically speaking, of course).

So, here’s my challenge to you: No matter your age or stage of life, ask yourself — Where do I want to be ten years from now?

Set a goal. Create a plan. And make sure your finances are part of that plan. When you’re ready, let’s put that plan into action together.

I not only offer financial education and support, but I’m also looking for people who want to help others protect their financial futures. Want to learn more? Send me a message — I’m here to help you make a difference.