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RTP Step 2: Scope

Updated: Jun 19

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


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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 second instalment of our five-part Retirement Transition Plan (RTP) blog series. This series, shaped by four years of research and enriched with personal stories from individuals navigating this pivotal life stage, introduces the five key phases of the RTP journey: Consideration, Scope, Road Testing, Discussion, and Implementation.


Whether you’re contemplating retirement, pivoting towards a second career, or simply seeking more flexibility and purpose in your next life stage, the RTP framework offers guidance that is both intuitive and deeply personal.


What is RTP?


RTP is a research-backed framework designed to support individuals aged 50+, the “Q3 Life Stage”, through major career and lifestyle transitions. Far more than a planning tool, RTP fosters personal growth, practical planning, and meaningful dialogue with family, mentors, and advisors.


The program explores key areas such as:

      •     Personal purpose and growth

      •     Core values and legacy

      •     Physical and mental well-being

      •     Family dynamics

      •     Flexible working and second careers

      •     Succession planning and knowledge sharing

      •     Options for phased or full retirement


By considering both the practical and emotional dimensions of retirement, RTP helps individuals craft a vision that aligns with their future aspirations and current realities.


Phase 2: Scope


Plan Formulation, Timescale, and Preferred Direction of Travel


Having laid the emotional groundwork in the Consideration phase, you now arrive at Scope, a pivotal stage where your vision begins to take shape. This phase is about defining what your future looks like: setting intentions, clarifying your direction, and identifying the practical steps to move forward with purpose.


Direction matters more than speed. It’s not about rushing into decisions, it’s about making thoughtful ones. The Scope phase encourages you to reflect deeply on your values, priorities, and aspirations.


“What’s best for me, my family, and my circumstances?”


Think: Finance, Health, Happiness, and Life Priorities.


Use this stage to explore possibilities, test ideas, and shape a roadmap that supports a longer, more fulfilling life—both in and beyond work.


And don’t forget keep your RTP Journal updated. Regular reflection brings clarity and keeps your goals in sharp focus.


Key Questions to Shape Your RTP Journey


Career & Purpose


  • Are you ready to retire, or interested in working differently?

  • What new roles, sectors, or business ventures intrigue you?

  • Would a vocational course or qualification help unlock your next step?

  • Could a sabbatical offer the perspective or energy reset you need?

  • What new experiences or passions are calling your name?

  • What would a fulfilling future look like, professionally and personally?


Financial Readiness


(Seek advice from a qualified financial advisor.)

  • Are your finances aligned with your desired lifestyle?

  • Have you accounted for mortgages, tuition, pensions, and savings?

  • Can your resources support reduced hours, or increased free time?


Values, Identity & Personal Growth


  • What are your core personal values?

  • What activities make you feel most alive?

  • How will you define your identity after stepping back from work?

  • What legacy do you want to leave?

  • What truly matters to you right now?


Health & Well-being


  • Are your habits supporting your long-term health?

  • Could small lifestyle changes have a big impact on your energy and mindset?

  • What will help you maintain confidence and resilience during this transition?


Routine, Structure & Balance


  • How will you build a new daily rhythm outside of work?

  • What will replace the structure, challenge, or stimulation of your current role?


Connections & Community


  • How will you maintain or create meaningful social connections?

  • What hobbies or activities could help you build new circles of support?

  • How will you stay digitally connected and continue to grow?


Giving Back & Legacy


  • Are there causes or communities where you could make a difference?

  • Are you a caregiver? What practical support do you need to sustain that?

  • Could you share your Q3 story as a mentor, speaker, or ambassador?


Practical Planning & Reflection


  • What’s keeping you up at night? (Start there.)

  • Have you explored phased transitions like reduced hours or job sharing?

  • Are there final milestones you’d like to reach before retiring fully?

  • What skills or training could help prepare you for your next step?

  • Craft a clear timeline and action plan to stay on course.

  • Reflect often. Your RTP Journal is a critical tool to track actions, thoughts, and progress.


What’s Next?


And so…

Begin crafting a plan and timeline that makes your transition meaningful, fulfilling, and uniquely yours.


Keep your RTP Journal up to date. Reflect regularly. Revisit your goals. Track your journey.


Up Next: Session 3 – Road Test


Ready to Start Your Own RTP Journey?





Option 1 – For Individuals:

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


Option 2 – For Organisations:

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


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


 
 
 

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