Kevin*, a sixty-six-year-old employee and customer relationship trainer, entered coaching upon his retirement. Kevin enjoyed many components of his work, including conducting and analyzing customer surveys.  Retirement was difficult given that his wife still worked, and the world was in the midst of a pandemic. As a result, he had a lot of time on his hands. Although Kevin felt supported by his family, he was spending lots of time by himself and felt a little despondent about redefining this phase of his life.

According to Kevin, “During the coaching process, I overcame a couple of rough patches related to settling into retirement and feeling both unmotivated and stuck.” I added preventative care visits to my doctors, worked with a nutritionist, explored hobbies, and discovered ways to virtually stay in touch with my daughter. This period was about determining how to find meaning and maintaining a sense of well-being.

This was a reflective activity and Kevin was invited to enter the process either through journaling or talking over the inquiry with his circle of influence. Playing the ukulele was a way he derived pleasure–a hobby that he and his daughter shared and brought much enjoyment to his week. He found getting out for camping trips with friends plus taking both virtual ukulele and guitar lessons were fulfilling.

During our two-year coaching relationship, Kevin attended to his health care priorities, resumed going to the gym, and adopted a nutritional approach that supported his physical well-being objective. His outlook improved, he was sleeping and eating better; and he found that he was dropping some weight. Kevin decided to share his knowledge and years of experience at a college and non-profit organization. Having these outlets gave him a renewed purpose.

At the completion of our coaching session, Kevin shared that he was on the right path for overall well-being.

“From the moment of our first call, I looked forward to our next scheduled call. I found energizing outlets, including playing the guitar and ukulele as well as reconnecting with old friends. You (Novelette) played a significant role in helping me achieve all of that. I am happy when I remember your wonderful, engaging personality and your expert coaching. You are a true professional and I wish you continued success.”

What are your plans for retirement and where do you feel stuck?

*Pseudonym for privacy