In this thoughtful article, Barry Mitchell explores a question that often gets overlooked in retirement planning: not just “Can I retire?” but “Why am I retiring — and what am I retiring toward?” The piece examines how closely many people tie their identity and purpose to their careers, and why creating meaning, structure, and fulfillment beyond work is such an important part of the transition into retirement. It’s a reflective and practical perspective on planning for the emotional side of retirement — not just the financial one.