This book offers a meaningful and thought-provoking exploration of the emotional and psychological challenges that can come with transitioning into retirement—particularly for high-achieving individuals. Its greatest strength lies in the depth and variety of reflective prompts, which encourage readers to consider identity, purpose, and fulfillment beyond professional success. The questions posed are wide-ranging and well-suited to anyone navigating major life transitions.

That said, the book often equates "high achieving" with high net worth, and the examples and assumptions throughout suggest an audience with significant financial resources. This framing may alienate readers who identify as high achievers but do not possess the same level of wealth. The role of privilege in shaping retirement options and experiences is largely unacknowledged, which feels like a missed opportunity for a more inclusive and nuanced discussion.

Still, for readers who fit the intended profile—or are willing to adapt the reflections to their own context—there’s much here to consider and apply.

Any life change creates anxiety, and many worry that retirement brings financial, social, and emotional change — even if they are looking forward to the actual stopping-work part of retirement. Parsons explores how we can get beyond the “what do I do now” phase to help the reader reconnect with who they are outside the world of work and figure out what retirement means to them.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

I must admit, I wasn't that impressed. First of all, the definition of "high achieving" is subjective. You can be an intelligent person, a hard worker, have a stable job, but not one that brings home a lot of money (let's say, a teacher,) so does that mean you're not high achieving? Second, the author seems to assume that a person's identity is very much wrapped up in their job description, which translates more like having a job that gives a person bragging rights in high powered circles. And if a person is that high achieving and that wrapped up in their identity, it seems like common sense that such a WOULD have a plan for their retirement. Who are these wayward people she keeps talking about? Bottom line, I just felt like every bit of advice was wrapped up in arrogance.