Redefining Retirement: How Companies Can Support Employees on the Road Ahead
For decades, employees dedicate their lives to building careers, contributing to organizations, and shaping industries. But as retirement looms, many face a pivotal question: What comes next? For employees nearing retirement, the thought of leaving behind their identity tied to their career can be both exciting and daunting. For companies, this presents a unique opportunity to show they care deeply about their employees—not just as workers, but as people with dreams and goals beyond the office.
Why Employees Nearing Retirement Hold On
Research shows that many employees nearing retirement age are hesitant to leave the workforce. According to a study by the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, 55% of Baby Boomers plan to work past 65, either full-time or part-time. Here’s why they hold on:
Identity and Purpose: For years, their self-worth and identity have been tied to their professional role. Without it, many fear losing a sense of purpose.
Financial Concerns: Even with savings, uncertainty about finances and the rising cost of living make many reluctant to step away.
Community and Routine: The workplace provides social connections and daily structure, both of which are difficult to replicate in retirement.
Fear of the Unknown: Retirement represents uncharted territory. Without a clear vision of what life after work looks like, employees often cling to the familiar.
Introducing the Dream Manager Curriculum
This is where companies can step in with solutions that not only support their employees but also leave a lasting legacy of care and purpose. Facilitated by a certified coach and inspired by Matthew Kelly's groundbreaking program, the Dream Manager Curriculum offers a unique and practical approach to redefining how we guide our most valued team members into the next chapter of their lives.
Designed to help individuals identify, articulate, and achieve their personal dreams, this curriculum is particularly impactful for those nearing retirement. Here’s why:
Reconnection to Purpose: Employees are guided to explore what truly matters to them—whether that’s spending more time with family, starting a passion project, or contributing to their community. The program’s focus on dreams beyond work gives retirees a roadmap to rediscover their purpose. This is especially powerful for those struggling to redefine their identity outside of their career, providing clarity and direction for a meaningful next chapter.
Holistic Growth: The Dream Manager Curriculum guides participants through four key areas—physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual health—empowering them to transition into a purposeful life beyond work. It also includes a financial planning component, equipping employees with tools to confidently map their financial future, whether budgeting for dream vacations or planning charitable contributions.
A Structured Pathway to Routine and Community: Retirement can feel like jumping off a cliff without a parachute. Our program provides structure, actionable steps, and ongoing support to ensure employees feel confident and prepared. It also helps them identify new ways to use their skills, gifts, and time to build a sense of community and maintain a fulfilling routine. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or joining new social groups, retirees find meaningful ways to stay connected and engaged.
Enhanced Company-Employee Relationships: Offering this program shows that companies care about their employees beyond their tenure. This builds goodwill, strengthens loyalty, and establishes the organization as a leader in employee well-being.
The Benefits for Companies
Investing in the Dream Manager Curriculum isn’t just a perk for employees; it’s a strategic advantage for organizations. Here’s how:
Improved Succession Planning: Smooth transitions allow the next generation of leaders to step in without disrupting company dynamics.
Increased Retention: Employees are more likely to stay longer when they know their organization values their long-term well-being.
Enhanced Reputation: Companies that prioritize employee development—even beyond employment—are seen as forward-thinking and caring employers.
A Vision for the Future
Imagine this: Employees retire not with fear and uncertainty, but with clarity, confidence, and excitement for their next chapter. Imagine a workplace culture where employees feel valued at every stage of their journey, even beyond their time with the company.
The Dream Manager Curriculum makes this vision a reality. By empowering employees nearing retirement, companies create a ripple effect of positivity—for the individual, their families, and the organization as a whole.
Ready to Redefine Retirement?
Retirement is not the end of the road—it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With the Dream Manager Curriculum, your company can equip employees with the tools and support they need to thrive in their encore years.
Whether through our individualized 1:1 or group coaching sessions, we help employees transition to a life of purpose and fulfillment. Let’s work together to create a workplace culture that values people and their dreams—beyond their careers.
Contact us today to learn more and get started!