Retirement today has taken on an entirely new meaning for most people, with retirees often continuing an active lifestyle in search of the same fulfillment they used to get from their career.

“It’s a different world these days,” said Arif Halaby, president and CEO of Total Financial Solutions. “Retirement, it’s really almost like another phase in life where there’s a career change.”

Instead of sitting in their rocking chairs “waiting to die,” Halaby noted retirees often find themselves restless after only a few months, having completed their list of projects, done some travelling and worn out their favorite hobbies.

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“(You) need to realize that in this process of changing of life, there’s going to be almost like something has died,” Halaby explained. “We have seen the psychological change that happens in retirement. It’s much more than just, ‘Ok, now I can do all the things that I want to do.’”

Because returning to the same career field is often not an option due to rapid changes in technology and related skillsets, Halaby recommends retirees find fulfillment by either volunteering for a cause that they’re passionate about or mentoring those just starting out in their field.

“One of the things that we’ve seen is people start to volunteer,” Halaby said. “It’s really a big part of who you are, and I think that matters a lot when you’re working on, how are you going to be that person that’s really important and valuable in other people’s lives?”

Similarly, those who feel themselves drawn to their former careers can find value in helping others who are just starting out succeed.

“Stay valuable in your career field,” Halaby said. “Stay valuable in what’s happening with your systems in your (old) job. Think about mentoring young people at entry level positions of the job that you used to be a part of.”

Not only can volunteering or mentoring help retirees regain their sense of fulfillment, the activity can also help keep their brains sharp, potentially preventing diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

“Everything from crossword puzzles to getting involved on a day-to-day basis with math problems or with solving issues — that is a very important part about staying mentally focused,” Halaby said. “So there’s not a lot of excitement that comes from retirement and leaving your field unless you have something else to do.”

Total Financial Solutions offers assistance with preparing for retirement and financial planning in Santa Clarita and the surrounding valleys. Santa Clarita financial advisor Arif Halaby, a Certified Estate Planner, and Total Financial Solutions staff work with people of all ages, helping them protect, grow and preserve their assets through an individualized approach. As a well-known financial planner, Arif Halaby is also the host of “Total Financial Solutions Safer Money Hour” on KHTS AM-1220. Launched in 2004, the show offers listeners financial planning tips and guidance for dealing with today’s ever-changing financial needs from the perspective a financial advisor.  

Total Financial Solutions, Inc.

24322 Main Street

Newhall, CA 91321

661-753-9683

800-990-7344