When we think of retirement planning, our minds often jump to 401(k)s, IRAs, and pension funds. But according to Dr. Corinne Auman, a developmental psychologist and author of Keenagers: Telling a New Story about Aging, there’s a crucial element we frequently overlook: planning for a fulfilling life beyond the paycheck.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of preparing for your future lifestyle, not just your finances, using real-world insights, practical tools, and questions worth asking.

Rethinking Retirement: More Than Just Finances

Retirement isn’t what it used to be. The outdated idea that life winds down after age 65 has been thoroughly debunked. People are living longer, healthier lives. Today’s 70-year-olds are active, entrepreneurial, socially engaged, and purpose-driven. This understanding demands a new lens through which to view retirement — one that goes beyond money and into retirement lifestyle goals.

Introducing the SPIES Framework

Dr. Auman emphasizes that while financial security is essential, it’s equally important to consider how you’ll spend your time, maintain social connections, and find purpose in your post-career years. She notes that many retirees experience an initial “honeymoon phase” of leisure, which can quickly give way to feelings of boredom and loss of identity if not thoughtfully planned. Dr. Auman uses the acronym SPIES to guide holistic retirement life planning:

• S – Spiritual: What brings meaning and inner peace?
• P – Physical: How will you stay active and healthy?
• I – Intellectual: How will you keep learning and engaging your mind?
• E – Emotional: How will you nurture relationships and emotional well-being?
• S – Social: How will you remain connected with others?

By addressing each of these areas, retirees can create a balanced and satisfying lifestyle.

Embracing the “Keenager” Mindset

In Dr. Auman’s experience, many retirees find the first 6–18 months of retirement exciting — but then comes the boredom, restlessness, and loss of identity. Her own mother returned to work after just six months of retirement, realizing that she missed the social and mental stimulation that her job provided.

The solution? Start planning in your 40s or 50s. In her book Keenagers, Dr. Auman challenges traditional narratives about aging, advocating for a view of later life as a time of growth, exploration, and vitality. She encourages individuals to pursue new hobbies, volunteer opportunities, or even second careers, redefining what it means to age well.

The Importance of Early Planning

Dr. Auman stresses the importance of being proactive. If you’re going to renovate your home to make it senior-friendly, do it long before a health event demands it. Likewise, if you’re considering moving to a Continuing Care Retirement Community, get on the waitlist years in advance. Ask:

• Is my home accessible and safe for aging?
• Do I need to start the process for long-term care planning?
• Have I explored Medicare and Retirement options early?
• Do I have a support system in place for emotional and physical needs?

Creating a life plan helps prevent panic during crises, such as a fall, illness, or the sudden need for care. It allows you to move through aging on your own terms.

Creating a Written Life Plan

At Peace of Mind Wealth Management, we focus on building a retirement plan that secures your finances and supports the lifestyle you envision. Dr. Corinne Auman’s approach to aging and life planning beautifully complements the Peace of Mind Pathway™ and offers a valuable framework to consider alongside your financial plan.

Her perspective is a powerful reminder: retirement isn’t just about your savings—it’s also about your sense of purpose, daily routine, and quality of life.

If you’re ready to think beyond the numbers and start shaping a fuller vision for retirement, we’d love to help guide that process on the financial side. Our team offers complimentary 15-minute phone calls to help answer your retirement questions and point you toward the right next steps.

Schedule your call today—and take one more step toward a retirement that’s truly your own.