The Four Stages of Retirement

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Retirement is often sold to us as a permanent holiday—a long, sunny afternoon in the garden with a chilled drink. But as Dr. Riley Moynes (often searched as Dr. Riley Moyes) discovered through his extensive research and TEDx talks, it’s actually a complex psychological journey.

If you’re approaching retirement in 2026, you’re likely keeping an eye on the State Pension age rising to 67 or tracking your pension pot’s performance on your phones. But beyond the numbers, you need to prepare for the "Four Phases."

Here is a breakdown of what to expect as you navigate your "second act" in the UK today.

Phase 1: The Vacation Phase

This is the "Honeymoon." You wake up on Monday morning, realize you don't have a commute to London or a Zoom call to join, and head for a long walk or a mid-morning coffee instead.

  • The Vibe: Pure freedom. You might finally book that extended trip to the Highlands or spend months "decompressing."

  • The Duration: Usually lasts 6 to 18 months.

  • The Catch: Eventually, the novelty of having no routine starts to wear thin. You might find yourself asking, "Is this it for the next 30 years?"

Phase 2: The "Big Five" Loss

This is the hardest phase, and Dr. Moynes is candid about it. Many retirees feel like they’ve "hit a wall." This is where you face the loss of the Big Five:

  1. Routine: No set structure to the day.

  2. Identity: Who are you if you aren't a Manager, Teacher, or Engineer?

  3. Relationships: Losing the "water cooler" social life of the office.

  4. Purpose: Feeling like you aren't contributing.

  5. Power: The loss of influence you once held in your field.

In the UK, where work identity is often deeply ingrained, this phase can lead to what Moynes calls the "3 D's": Depression, Decline, and Divorce. Recognizing this phase as a transition—not a permanent state—is key.

Phase 3: The Trial and Error Phase

Once you realize the "permanent vacation" isn't working, you start experimenting. This is the rehabilitation stage.

  • The Search: You begin asking, "How can I contribute again?"

  • The Tech Edge: Using your iPhone 17 Pro Max, you might start researching local volunteering roles, looking into "Silver Startups," or using the latest AI-assisted apps to learn a new language or skill.

  • The Failures: Not everything will stick. You might join a bridge club and hate it, or start a garden project that's too ambitious. That’s okay—this phase is about finding what fits.

Phase 4: Reinvent and Rewire

This is the "Sweet Spot." Only about 60% of retirees truly reach this phase, but those who do report it being the most fulfilling time of their lives.

  • The Shift: You move from self-focused activities (Stage 1) to service-focused activities.

  • The Result: You find a new sense of purpose that balances your skills with your passions. Whether it’s mentoring younger professionals, running a charity, or becoming a local community leader, you’ve "squeezed the juice" out of retirement.


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