We recently read an article that complacency is one of the most hidden dangers in retirement. You may be wondering…what exactly does that mean? Do I have to continue to be driven in retirement? I thought I was finally getting a break from “work!”

Yes, retirement should be a time to enjoy an overly scheduled lifestyle, however it can quickly become a slippery slope and what you thought was less planning can quickly become a constant state of reaction. You may be reacting to whatever comes your way and just okay with the status quo. You are not really planning or thinking ahead, just taking it easy to see what happens. This is where the danger settles in.

Complacency is a making a conscious decision to succumb… to be a reactionary. Just waiting for something to happen and then responding. This can happen in many areas of life during retirement. It’s easiest to notice complacency with health and fitness, as often a doctor will pick up on these things during an office visit. We’ve all heard the story of a fully retired individual, taking it easy, just kind of going with the flow, when suddenly a doctor visit uncovers high blood pressure, high cholesterol or pre-diabetes due to a lack of self-care. All of a sudden, this person goes from no meds, to several medications and doctor visits. Complacency can land you on a regular schedule of doctor appointments vs. living out your retirement dreams of travel, recreation and more.

It’s not just physical health that can take a back seat. It’s easy for mental health and relationships to fall into a routine of complacency as well. Energy in equals energy out and with a complacent mindset, you are not set up for a good scenario. Investing in meditation time, self reflection, goal setting and quality time for yourself and you loved ones is important. If you don’t make the investment, sometimes it will take an accident or emergency to finally take note that it is time for a change. A shock of some sort that forces you into this new state of, “Oh my God, I can’t live like this anymore.”

But why wait for that? Then you are reacting in panic mode.

We are here to encourage you to make a soft plan, take care of your needs and set some short and long term goals for the many years of your retirement life ahead. You have the time, so now is a great time to actively engage in the key areas of your life including, physical wellness, mental wellness, relationships, spouse/partner relationship, and wisdom sharing, all of which are the components of our five modules for retirement transforming.

It takes work, but it’s worth it. Who wants to sit around waiting for something bad to happen?

Our Retirement Transformed planning process can help you reframe your retirement from a state of reaction and complacency to your ultimate goal of proactive planning and self-assurance to achieve the life you want to live!

This post was adapted from a Facebook live in our free Facebook Community.