Case Study

Retirement - or refocusment?

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Ian Hutchinson, leading lifestyle strategist believes that the word 'retirement' should be 'retired' from the English dictionary, because it has connotations of waiting to die, rather than the joyful exploration of a third major stage of life.

"I am really tired of the word retirement. It is such an anachronism. It suggests a period of recline and decline, which is simply not true for the vast majority of retirees today. I say we take the 'tire' out of retirement and replace it with 'focus', because that is exactly the opportunity that moving out of the traditional workforce provides. It is an opportunity to refocus, to do more of what is really important in our lives. It is a period of refocusment".

Hutchinson says that until 'refocusment' replaces 'retirement' in common usage, he will stay with the word 'retirement', but will give it his own definition. "'Retirement' to me means having the freedom to do whatever you want. I have been retired for five years so far, and I'm not yet 40".

Hutchinson founded Life by Design® in 1997. He coupled a background in business and psychology to develop a logical 7 stage process for designing lifestyle. He applies the process in his own lifestyle, as do those who work for him, and a growing base of corporate and public clients.

"You have the choice. You can live your life by default, and many people do just that, or you can live your life by design. I can assure you that having a vision for the future, and strategies to move you towards that vision, creates greater happiness for you right now. It's all about living in the now, but having a plan for the future".

Hutchinson believes that those approaching retirement, and those already retired, can achieve greater satisfaction and fulfillment in their lives if they develop a business plan for their personal life.

"When I speak with retired people and hear what their typical week involves, it makes my head spin. The variety and volume of activities is extraordinary. It's great to see so many people really enjoying themselves, and also giving something back to society. We each have something unique to offer, and I believe that if we can each make a difference in the life of just one other person, we have found success in this life".

"But it's easy to say 'yes' to a number of things and find yourself doing them at the expense of doing things you really enjoy. A 65 year old recently commented to me that he doesn't know how he ever fit work in. The main thing is to be as clear as you can on what your lifestyle priorities are, and to make sure that the activities you fill your life with are in accord with your main lifestyle priorities".

Life by Design has devised ten major areas of lifestyle priority:

• Family
• Financial independence
• Purposeful work/activities
• Social
• Contribution to society
• Creativity and hobbies
• Intellectual growth
• Spiritual (not necessarily religion)
• Love relationship
• Health

Hutchinson says "If you are someone who considers health, intellectual growth and creativity/hobbies as your top three lifestyle priorities, but you are spending a lot of time organising events for your local community organisation, you are likely to feel anxious and dissatisfied. You may not be allowing yourself enough time for the things that are most important to you."

"I see that sort of thing quite often, and it is usually the result of putting others' priorities before your own. It's a difficult step for some to take, especially those who have been used to putting others' needs before their own. But if you can be really honest and aware about what your priorities are, and can use your time on activities which align with them, then you will find you are happier and more fulfilled".

"Leaving traditional full-time work gives you the opportunity to refocus. It's worth taking a step back from your life, and spending some time to decide what you want to achieve in your retirement, and how you are going to go about it. It can be a period of recline and decline, or a period of growth and activity, it's up to you".

Ian Hutchinson (G.Dip.Psy, B.Bus, APS), Founder of Life by Design®, has built a reputation as Australia's leading lifestyle strategist. He has studied overseas with some of the world's leaders in lifestyle planning, and his lifestyle strategy work has been profiled throughout the media. His entertaining presentations are in demand throughout the world including Europe and the Middle East. Life by Design® can be contacted by phone on (02) 9979 4949, or visit www.lifebydesign.com.au.

For permission to reproduce this article in whole or in part,
contact Tanya Mottl by phone (+ 612) 9979 4949, fax (+ 612) 9979 4969,
or email info@lifebydesign.com.au

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