As women approach retirement age, many may feel hesitant about what their next chapter will look like. Traditionally, retirement has been viewed as a time to relax and take a break from the workforce. However, more and more women are choosing to pursue encore careers in retirement, which offer numerous benefits and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Women and Encore careers
An encore career is a second career that a person pursues after retirement, typically in a field that is different from their previous career. For women, an encore career can be particularly appealing as it offers a chance to explore new interests and passions, while still providing a source of income and purpose.
Minimize feelings of isolation
One of the main benefits of an encore career for women is the opportunity to stay engaged and active in the workforce. Many women find that retirement can lead to feelings of isolation and a loss of identity, but an encore career can provide a sense of purpose and connection to the community.
Pursue passions and values
Another benefit of an encore career for women is the opportunity to pursue a career that aligns with their values and passions. Many women may have pursued careers earlier in life for financial reasons or due to societal expectations, but an encore career can offer a chance to explore new interests and engage in work that feels more meaningful and fulfilling. This can lead to a greater sense of satisfaction and happiness in retirement.
Positive societal impact
In addition to personal benefits, an encore career can also have a positive impact on the community. Many women choose to pursue encore careers in fields such as education, healthcare, or non-profit work, where they can make a difference in the lives of others. This can be incredibly rewarding and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that may be lacking in traditional retirement.
An additional source of retirement income
An encore career can provide an additional source of income, which can be particularly important for women who may have taken time off from work to care for family members or who have not had the same earning potential as their male counterparts.
Challenges of an encore career
Of course, transitioning to an encore career can also come with its own set of challenges. Women may need to update their skills or pursue additional education to enter a new field, and they may face ageism or other forms of discrimination in the job market. However, with the right preparation and support, these challenges can be overcome, and an encore career can provide a fulfilling and rewarding next chapter in a woman’s life.
Start planning early
To make a successful transition to an encore career, women need to start planning early. This can involve researching potential careers, building new skills, and networking with professionals in their desired fields. It can also be helpful to seek out support and guidance from mentors or career coaches who can provide advice throughout the transition process.
Also, be sure to integrate your plans for an encore career into your financial plans and budget. Independent Financial Services can help you do this with experienced and knowledgeable financial advisors that are ready to provide you with the best customer service in the industry. Get in touch with us to get started.