Are you in a season of retirement or soon will be? If so, it is important to have a plan. Often, within months of retirement, individuals find themselves depressed and without direction.
Everyone needs a reason to get up in the morning. Do you know yours?
When I left teaching several years ago, I went through a period of loss and confusion. I lost my sense of identity. I had a vague sense of direction, but was suddenly unsure of my purpose in this new season of life. One of the things that helped me tremendously was discovering my strengths. My StrengthsFinder Coach, Ken Barr, Jr, not only helped me discover my strengths, but also helped me discern direction for my new path. One of the things Ken does is ask these three questions:
1) What do you do with excellence - at a high level?
2) What do you do with ease - those things you do without even thinking about?
3) What do you do with enjoyment - when you lose all track of time?
Your answers to these three questions are indicators of your strengths. They are your obsession, your super powers. When you are operating in these areas, you are working at your best. You and everyone around you benefit.
Do you know what your strengths are? If not, there is an online assessment at www.gallupstrengthsfinder.com where you can acquire an individualized code. The results of the assessment will reveal your top 5 strengths. Once you discover your strengths, it is vital to combine them with your life experience. Knowing your strengths is not enough. It is important to discern ways to use your gifts to encourage and serve others. One of my passions is helping others discover their unique purpose on their journeys. How can I help you?
Our joy in this life comes from using the gifts God has given each one of us in order to fully love ourselves and love our neighbors. Retirement can be a time of anxiety, loss of direction, and purpose, or a time of excitement and adventure. The choice is up to you.
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