Retiring from a long career is a significant life transition. While it’s a time for celebration and newfound freedom, it’s crucial to approach this decision thoughtfully. Too often, the decision to leave work is made in isolation, without getting the advice of others who know you. That’s a mistake.

As we reach a certain age and start fretting about retirement, many of us forget about one of the best resources for retirement advice: the people we most trust. Seeking advice from trusted confidantes can provide valuable insights and perspectives that you may not have considered on your own.

According to Patrice Jenkins, an organizational psychologist based in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., any major life transition decisions should include counsel from your trusted advisors. That is because deciding on major changes alone can leave us with blinders that we might not be aware of.

When seeking advice for retirement, consider reaching out to a diverse group of trusted individuals. Your spouse or partner is undoubtedly a crucial source of input, as open and honest conversations about finances, lifestyle expectations, and long-term goals are essential for a successful retirement.

Close friends, with their deep understanding of your personality and interests, can offer valuable perspectives on your strengths, weaknesses, and potential pursuits in retirement. Your family members can offer insights into your family dynamics and potential caregiving needs. Former colleagues can offer valuable guidance on how those skills might translate into a second career, volunteer work, or other meaningful pursuits.

Finally, a qualified financial advisor can provide expert guidance on assessing your financial situation. It can help you to develop a comprehensive retirement income plan and address any concerns about long-term financial security. Engaging in meaningful conversations with these individuals requires thoughtful and insightful questions.

Seeking advice from those who have already navigated retirement by asking “What advice would you give me for a fulfilling retirement?” allows you to tap into the wisdom and experience of others.

Similarly, learning from their challenges by asking “What are some of the biggest challenges you faced in retirement, and how did you overcome them?” can help you prepare for potential obstacles and develop effective coping strategies.

To effectively utilize this advice, you can take the following steps.

Create a list of trusted advisors: Identify the individuals who know you best and whose advice you value most. Consider their diverse perspectives and experiences, as well as their ability to offer honest and constructive feedback.

Schedule dedicated time for conversations: Set aside time to have open and honest discussions with each person on your list. These conversations should be unrushed and allow for genuine dialogue and reflection.

Actively listen and reflect on their insights: Carefully consider their perspectives and how they can help you make informed decisions about your retirement. Jot down key takeaways and consider how they align with your own goals and aspirations.

Keep a journal to document your conversations and reflections: This will help you track your progress and make sense of the valuable insights you’ve gained. Review your journal periodically to gain a deeper understanding of your retirement vision and identify any emerging themes or concerns.

In this way, by actively seeking counsel from trusted advisors, you can gain valuable insights, and address potential concerns. This will help you to increase your confidence as you embark on this exciting new chapter of your life.

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