Retirement Is a Team Sport. Who’s in Your Lineup?
Retirement isn’t a solo endeavor, it's a team sport. For all the talk of independence and freedom, the truth is the quality of your retirement has everything to do with the people you share it with. Think of it like a team sport where each player contributes to the whole, and the experience is more gratifying when you share both the challenge and the reward with each other.
The Myth of “Going It Alone”
Retirement is often framed as a personal journey. And while that may be true, personal doesn’t have to mean isolated. In fact, I would go so far to say that if you share a life, or even just a living space, with another person, your retirement can’t possibly exist in isolation. When the structure of work fades, your relationships matter more than ever. You need people to share your life with. You also need people who challenge you, reflect your values, and expand your perspective.
Six Valuable Players to Have in Your Retirement Lineup
The Elder
Someone who's just a few steps ahead in retirement. This person can offer grounded advice and model what a vibrant next chapter looks like. Their wisdom helps you avoid pitfalls and spot unexpected opportunities.
The Upstart
Whether it’s a grandchild, younger neighbor, or mentee, this person keeps you curious, nimble, and open to change. They introduce new ideas and challenge you to keep evolving.
The Guide
A coach, therapist, or spiritual advisor, this person has the training and perspective to help you navigate big transitions with clarity and intention. Sometimes we all need a nudge and a mirror. (Shameless plug - we do this role pretty well here at Retire Artfully).
The Perspective-Shifter
Someone who comes from a different background, culture, or worldview than you. They help expand your sense of possibility and help you think outside of your (sometimes unintentionally small) box.
The Brainstormer
This is your creative collaborator or intellectual peer. They’re the person you can talk ideas out with. Whether you're exploring a new hobby, project, or second act, they help you dream big and problem-solve. And if you’re lucky, they’ll be your biggest cheerleader, too.
The Steady Friend
The person who knows your history, holds your vulnerability, and makes space for who you are becoming. Whether it’s a standing lunch date or a quick call, their presence reminds you that you’re not doing this alone.
What If I Don’t Have a Lineup Yet?
It’s more common than you’d think to find yourself at this juncture with few teammates, especially when most of your prior relationships are rooted at work. The good news is it’s never too late to build a lineup with purpose.
Ask yourself:
Who inspires me?
Who listens without trying to “fix me”?
Who offers a completely different (and interesting) perspective?
Who helps me take action?
If you find yourself stuck without “teammates”, try:
Taking a class outside your comfort zone (many state community colleges offer free or reduced cost classes for retirees)
Volunteering in a community organization that matters to you
Reaching out to someone you haven't spoken with in a long time
Working with a retirement guide or coach who can help you map out what’s next
Retirement is a new game and every player matters. You have the chance to build a lineup where you both give and receive support, wisdom, and encouragement. When you surround yourself with diverse teammates who challenge you, inspire you, and lean on you in return, retirement becomes a powerful new beginning. Looking for your first teammate? Contact Retire Artfully today!
