You go through many transitions during retirement, from phasing out of work to rediscovering your interests and hobbies. However, the biggest shift is yet to come.
The loss of a spouse is one of the deepest a person can feel, it goes beyond simply missing someone. For those who have been married a long time, your lives become intertwined. You each have your assumed responsibilities in the home, you have your constant companion, you find things you enjoy together, and sometimes, you even dress alike.
So, what do you do when that is suddenly gone?
First, take the necessary time to grieve. It’s understandable that the magnitude of loss you are experiencing can be incapacitating or overwhelming.
And when you are ready, here are a few ways to move forward:
Get a mentor. Look for a widow or widower who is/has successfully dealt with what you are going through, in a healthy way. They are happy and reintegrating into the world. (Your advisor may know someone they can introduce you to!)
Use this opportunity to reinvent yourself. Perhaps you love sushi, but your partner despised it…. Or maybe you have always wanted to learn line dancing, but your spouse had zero rhythm. Try to see all the windows of opportunity that are opening.
Also, make sure you are surrounding yourself with the people who will encourage you through this process. Find a friend or group who will be by your side cheering you on or jumping in with you.
Before you know it, you will be thriving and loving life again!
This material was prepared by Bill Good Marketing. Bill Good Marketing is not affiliated with Bailey Wealth Services or LPL Financial.