Next Up: Retirement
Finding answers to our pressing questions as we write the next chapter of our lives.
Where did the time go?
As I write this, I am on the cusp of turning 60 years old. Where has the time gone? Had you asked me thirty years ago where I would be in life, I may not have known, but I am sure I would have had it all figured out by now. Boy, would I have been wrong!
Over the last few years, so much has changed in my life. Pandemic aside, I faced situations that I didn’t expect or plan. Life was getting more real to me. Things mattered more. Consequences seemed more significant. I was no longer young, thinking there was still so much time for me to figure stuff out. I couldn’t wait for the proverbial tomorrow anymore.
Time was no longer on my side.
With each new situation, I searched for answers (and still do daily).
Will I be able to retire comfortably? What if I get sick and can it be prevented? Should we sell our family home and downsize? Is my job secure?How do I assist my aging parents? What if my health insurance is insufficient? Do I need a will? How do I plan for the unexpected? What kind of legacy am I leaving for my family?
None of these questions or situations were unique to me. If you are around my age, you are probably seeking answers to the same questions I have. Am I right?
“The best thing a human being can do is to help another human being know more.”
— Charlie Munger, Renowned Businessman and Investor
My mission
As I reflect on my career and personal life, it isn’t the “what I did” that gave me satisfaction, but rather it is the “why I did”. My “why” has always been to serve. To serve my family to the best of my ability. To serve my clients, putting their interests above mine. To serve my coworkers, as a teammate and teacher. To serve my community by being a good, caring, thoughtful neighbor.
This journey I am on, navigating this unknown landscape of issues and concerns regarding pre- and early-retirement, is shared by many of you. Some of us may be further along in the journey while others may be just starting. Wherever we are in this quest, there is so much to learn and apply.
Next Up: Retirement is to be of SERVICE to each of you who seek guidance on life’s challenges as we lead up to our Golden Years. Questions will be asked, answers will be sought, and the path to resolution will evolve. I envision this platform to be a community. Neighbor helping neighbor.
The topics we will address include:
- Retirement Planning and Financial Security
- Health and Wellness
- Family and Relationships
- Purpose and Fulfillment
- Dealing with Uncertainty
- Leaving a legacy
What can you expect?
Each week, I will delve deeply into an issue or question that I, or someone in our community, may be facing. As I will not be the expert in many areas, I will research the topic, interviewing and receiving input from experts when needed, and share what I’ve learned with you.
The goal is for everyone to benefit from the expert guidance on the important issues that we are facing.
In addition to the main topic, each week I will provide other insight I have gleaned on topics that likely apply to you, but may not warrant a full blog post.
This blog is designed to be evergreen. A guide you can refer back to time and again.
What do I ask of you?
Share with me your questions and concerns
You are likely dealing with something that others are facing as well. Let me help find the solution that can be shared with our community.
Share the blog with friends and family
There is no reason to go this alone. Your friends and family may benefit from the guidance provided…or they may better understand your concerns so as not to judge.
Join and be active in our Facebook Group Community
Several years ago I would have dismissed being part of a Facebook Group. My opinion has totally changed! I have personally benefited from the experience of others in the groups I participate in on Facebook. The power of a community cannot be understated!
Subscribe to our companion Podcast and Newsletter
In addition to the Next Up: Retirement blog will have a complementary podcast (and YouTube channel) and newsletter. At this time, the expectation is that the podcast will be published weekly and the newsletter monthly. Similar to the blog, my intent is to publish evergreen material on both of these platforms. Ultimately, the goal is to provide you with a library of content that you can refer to when facing a question. I want to be your trusted advisor, guide, and friend.
Join me on this journey
Thank you for taking a part of your day and sharing it with me. Let’s make the most of our time together!
Stephen