RTP Step 1: Consideration

Retirement Transition Plan Blog Series: Laying the Groundwork for a Meaningful Transition

Retirement Transition Plan (RTP) Mission Statement

To deliver a meaningful and personalised plan that enables individuals to transition to a life eventually outside of work in a dignified, valued, and supportive manner.

Welcome to the first post in our five-part Retirement Transition Plan (RTP) series. Grounded in four years of research and enriched by hundreds of personal stories, this series is designed to guide you through the RTP journey using five key steps: Consideration, Scope, Road Testing, Discussion, and Implementation.

Whether you’re beginning to contemplate retirement or simply seeking greater flexibility and purpose in your next life stage, RTP offers an intuitive, human-centred framework to support your transition with confidence.

What is RTP?

RTP is a research-backed solution for individuals aged 50+, what we call the “Q3 Life Stage”, who are navigating career evolution or retirement decisions. More than just a planning tool, RTP is a deeply personal journey that can be shared with family and close advisors, acknowledging that significant life decisions are rarely made in isolation.

The RTP framework explores a wide range of areas, including:

      •     Personal growth and purpose

      •     Values and legacy

      •     Health and well-being

      •     Family dynamics

      •     Flexible working and second careers

      •     Knowledge exchange and succession planning

      •     Phased or full retirement pathways

This holistic and collaborative approach ensures that both professional goals and personal values are aligned in the design of a fulfilling future.

The Consideration Stage: Pre-Journey Checks

This initial stage of the RTP journey lays the emotional and psychological foundation for a successful transition. It’s about pausing to reflect before you act, building self-awareness, confidence, and intention.

“The fear I have is waking up on a Monday morning, having lost a large network of friends and colleagues, and not really knowing what’s next, or who to talk to.”

This sense of uncertainty is common. Many individuals hesitate to voice their thoughts about transition due to fear, fear of being seen as less committed, fear of marginalisation, or simply fear of the unknown.

“I’ve been working for 30 years, and I’m at a point where I want to start giving something back. I need a structured, personalised flight path that I can engage with and discuss with someone.”

While digital tools can offer generic support, most people benefit more from real, meaningful conversations. RTP offers a trusted space—backed by expert guidance—to explore your next chapter with clarity and courage.

Setting the Stage: Key Considerations for Your RTP Journey

Start an RTP Journal

A dedicated journal can become your anchor throughout the process. It’s a safe space to reflect, track progress, and connect with what truly matters.

Benefits include:

      •     Emotional clarity and stress relief

      •     Mental focus and decision-making support

      •     Encouragement of personal growth and creativity

      •     Improved memory and health outcomes

      •     Documentation of your legacy and life journey

Reflective Themes to Explore

1. Are You Ready to Be Coachable?

Approach this journey with humility, curiosity, and openness. Growth starts with a willingness to listen, learn, and adapt.

2. Define Your Desire

What do you want? Avoid overthinking and lean into what resonates. Trust your instincts and make this journey your own.

3. Financial Readiness

Have you assessed what you need to support your lifestyle post-career? Consult a qualified financial advisor to map out your future with confidence.

4. Open Your Mind

What brings you fulfilment? Which values will define your legacy? Start envisioning your life beyond conventional roles.

5. Set Your Pace and Timeline

Do you envision a phased approach or a clear “lift-off” date? Align your planning with your energy, goals, and readiness.

6. Mindset Matters

What does freedom mean to you? Picture a life defined not by limitations, but by creativity, purpose, and possibility.

7. Family Considerations

Think through how your transition may affect those around you:

• Partner dynamics

• Relationships with children or grandchildren

• Possible relocation

• Caregiving responsibilities (1 in 4 people aged 55–64 provide informal care averaging 35 hours/week)

8. Health & Well-Being

Take stock of your physical and emotional health. What habits can you build now to support a vibrant, resilient future?

9. Settling the Past

Transitions often bring unresolved feelings to the surface. This is your opportunity to reflect, make peace, and clear emotional space for growth.

By engaging in honest reflection, supported by your RTP journal, you lay a strong foundation for the future you want to create.

What’s Next?

Now is the time to begin shaping your personalised RTP plan, one built on meaning, purpose, and vision.

Start your journal. Reflect on your values. Record your goals. Track your progress.

Up Next: Session 2, Scope

Open the map. The journey begins.

Ready to Start Your Own RTP Journey?

Learn more about RTP

Option 1 – For Individuals:

The RTP Mentoring Programme offers tailored, 1-to-1 support delivered by ProAge via in-person sessions or Teams.

Contact: nigel@proage.org

Option 2 – For Organisations:

A secure SharePoint-based RTP hub provides downloadable, self-serve resources for colleagues and People Leaders alike.

Contact: nigel@proage.org

Let your next chapter be one of confidence, clarity, and connection, with RTP by your side.