Preparing for the Next Chapter

Retirement: Preparing for the Next Chapter

For many of us working the front lines, retirement is the finish line we keep in sight. You hear it on the yards all the time: “I’ve only got 3 years, 4 months, and 23 days left.” We count it down like a mantra.

But the truth is, the reality of that day doesn’t fully settle in until it’s close. That’s when the questions start creeping in:

• Will my pension be enough to cover my bills?
• What am I going to do with all that free time?
• And what about the elephant in the room—the statistics surrounding life expectancy after retirement for Officers?

Those thoughts can get heavy as the date approaches, and it’s easy to feel unprepared for what comes next.

If you dream of traveling in retirement, don’t wait until you hang up that duty belt to start. If you’re not doing it before retirement, the odds of suddenly doing it afterward aren’t great. Build the life you want now, not someday.

The same goes for your health. Many people tell themselves they’ll start hitting the gym once they retire but waiting that long can set you back. Our bodies absorb years of shift work, stress, and sleep disruption. Waiting until retirement to start taking care of yourself may mean starting from behind. Building healthy habits now gives you a better chance of enjoying the retirement you’ve worked so hard for.

Financially, start preparing early. Get used to living on less before that final day arrives. Bank that overtime. Put money into deferred compensation or similar accounts. Build a budget that reflects the lifestyle you want to maintain. Small, consistent steps now can make your transition smoother and your stress lighter when the time finally comes.

But retirement isn’t just about finances or physical readiness. There’s another piece that often gets overlooked, what life will feel like once the routine, the structure, and the sense of mission are suddenly gone. Many officers don’t realize how much of their identity is tied to the job until the day they walk out. Preparing for that shift is just as important as preparing for the financial and physical parts.

And that’s where purpose comes in. Finding meaning before you retire can make all the difference. For some, that might mean volunteering with organizations like the Red Cross. For others, it could be becoming a court‑appointed advocate for children or getting involved in a cause that speaks to you. Whatever it is, pursue something that gives you meaning and a reason to keep pushing forward. Purpose doesn’t just fill your time—it strengthens your sense of identity long after the badge comes off.

What helped you get ready for retirement? Drop your tips or experiences in the comments so others can benefit from your perspective.