Beyond The Bank: 10 Keys for Creating a Holistic Retirement
- M. Hakikah Shamsideen
- Oct 29
- 4 min read
The Holistic Homebody by Hakikah
Retirement is more than a date on the calendar or a number in a savings account. It’s a sacred transition—a passage from one season of life into another, often a quieter, more reflective one. While financial preparation is crucial, a holistic approach to retirement invites us to consider how we want to live in this next chapter, beyond merely considering how we’ll finance it.
Here are ten wise ways to prepare for retirement—financially, yes, but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
1. Create a Vision for Your Retirement Life. Before planning the logistics, get clear on the why. What does a meaningful, joy-filled retirement look like for you? Is it traveling? Starting a garden? Volunteering? Moving closer to grandchildren? Living abroad? Write your vision down. This becomes your north star for all subsequent decisions. I often hear people say they plan to travel and relax. Hopefully, there are many years left after retirement. Consider carefully how you want to spend and embrace this next season.
2. Start a “Legacy Journal.” Retirement provides a chance for reflection and relaxation. Begin documenting your thoughts—family stories, recipes, letters to loved ones, life lessons, and even prayers. I didn't seriously delve into my family tree until I retired. What I found was hidden treasure and part of the legacy I will pass on to future generations. Your legacy goes beyond finances; it includes memories, significance, and love shared across generations. I have become much more conscious of my words, their power, and how I express them. I spend more time with my son and grandchildren, fully aware that my words and actions shape the legacy I leave behind.
3. Build a Health Foundation You Can Rely On. After leaving the work routine, it feels like your body starts communicating more noticeably! Now I understand why my parents frequently visited the doctor. Keep in mind, you can't enjoy life if your body can't handle it. Focus on preventive care, nutritious foods, suitable physical activities, and adequate sleep. Be an educated patient and ask good questions. Begin developing habits now that your future self will appreciate. Don't postpone your wellness for "someday."
4. Declutter and Simplify Your Home. A clutter-free space brings peace and ease. Begin downsizing or reorganizing now—room by room, drawer by drawer. This isn’t just about tidying; it’s about releasing what no longer serves your spirit and creating a home that feels sacred and spacious.
5. Get Your Legal and Paperwork Affairs in Order. A wise woman has her house in order. Make sure your will, power of attorney, healthcare directives, and beneficiary forms are up to date and easily accessible...NOW. It’s an act of love and clarity for both you and those who will care for you. With six siblings, having my mother's arrangements documented and legally prepared eased our grieving process.
6. Embrace Sabbath Living. Rest should be seen as part of the rhythm of life, not a reward. Establish a weekly sabbath routine today, whether it involves silence, nature walks, or purposeful stillness. Retirement isn't just about stopping work; it's about adding mindful, intentional rest to your lifestyle. I write more about it in this post.*
7. Foster Intergenerational Connections. Retirement is not synonymous with isolation. Invest in younger generations—be it your children, grandchildren, nieces, church youth, or mentees. Share your skills, stories, and time with them. Having relationships with people of all ages enriches the soul and helps build a lasting legacy.
8. Audit Your Time, Not Just Your Budget. Begin observing how you allocate your time daily. What activities energize you? Which ones deplete your energy? Envision what your perfect day in retirement would be like. Start practicing intentional decision-making by saying 'yes' and 'no' now, so you can live purposefully later. It often happens that when people learn you are retired, they make plans for your time. Ensure you are clear about how you wish to spend it, or you might end up following their agenda instead of your own.
9. Explore Where You Want to Live—And How Do you want to stay in your current home, downsize, join a retirement community, or live abroad? Each option has emotional, financial, and spiritual implications. Explore and pray through the possibilities before the time feels urgent to make a decision.
10. Embrace Your Identity Beyond Work. Who are you without your job title? Start focusing on yourself outside of your professional or caregiving responsibilities. Explore new hobbies, reconnect with past interests, and find your voice again. Retirement is not the conclusion—it’s a return to your essence.
Where From Here?
Which step(s) from the list above will you focus on first??
Write an answer
You can vote for more than one answer.
Final Word: Retirement is a pivotal turning point—a call to shift, release, and reimagine. It’s not just about surviving without a paycheck. It’s about living richly in wisdom, rest, and purpose.
Prepare now, not just with your wallet—but with your soul.
🍁 Reflection
“In this season, may wisdom gather like leaves—reminding us that release and renewal are part of the same rhythm.”
🍁 Weekly Prayer
Gracious God, teach me to number my days with wisdom and gratitude. As I prepare for this next chapter, help me plan not only with spreadsheets but with spirit. Show me how to rest without guilt, give without fear, and live with a heart open to Your guidance. May my later years reflect peace, purpose, and praise. Amen.
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