Unlocking Fulfillment: How to Create an Ikigai-Inspired Retirement Vision

As Gloria, 56, and Ashely, 58, approached retirement, they wanted to plan for more than just relaxation—they were seeking purpose and to earn an income for their next chapter. Inspired by the Japanese concept of ikigai (sense of purpose, pursuing one’s passions, and a reason for being), they used the Finding Monday roadmap to design a retirement that reflected their passions, skills, and values.

They began by reflecting on what truly interested them, identified the skills they wanted to share, and how they could contribute to their community. Ashley, with a lifelong curiosity about history, decided while still working to go back part-time to university to study Classical archaeology. Now Ashley has finished his degree, and with a conversation with his manager scaled down his full-time role and incorporated work as a part-time lecturer in Classical Archaeology, and now has opportunities to run courses in retirement. Ashley and Gloria also travel to the Mediterranean regularly to upskill while enjoying a holiday. Gloria, a former research scientist, wanted to keep using her analytical and project skills so after resigning from her full-time role now volunteers at the Workers Education Association (WEA), assisting with researching and preserving their historical records. This has opened opportunities for new projects.

Reflecting on their planned approach to retirement, Ashely shared, “Having a clear vision gave us confidence and direction to prepare for our activities and interests so that we were retirement ready.” Their ikigai-inspired strategy not only gave them structure but also a profound sense of purpose, transforming their retirement into a vibrant and rewarding new chapter.