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Retirement Guru: “Let Go of Titles for Lasting Fulfillment”
In the journey of life, many of us invest decades climbing the career ladder, acquiring accolades, titles, and symbols of status. For many retirees, these titles and achievements continue to be a crucial part of their identities, a source of pride and a marker of purpose. But when retirement arrives, reality hits. These accomplishments, once defining, are left behind. This leads to a haunting sense of emptiness, frustration, and even bitterness.
The Weight of Past Titles
For so many, a career isn’t just a way to make a living. It’s a deeply embedded part of who we are. As we navigate the professional world, we become accustomed to our identify as the “CEO,” the “manager,” or the “specialist,” defined by both our accomplishments and the acknowledgment we receive from others.
But as fulfilling as these identities may feel, they’re ultimately rooted in external validation. When we retire, this external validation fades, leaving many retirees struggling to find the same sense of self-worth. Relying on these past titles can become a burden in retirement, leading to feelings of inadequacy, resentment, or even a lingering sense of having been “left behind.” This isn’t because we lose our worth…
