Course Description

Crafting Your Golden Years: A Life Beyond the Office

Picture it: a golden horizon, marked not by work deadlines but by opportunities to explore, learn, and relish the simple joys of life. This is the promise of retirement. Yet, as you embark on this new chapter, it’s essential to understand that it's a transition from work, not from the vibrant tapestry of life itself.

For many, the very term "retirement" evokes dreams of sun-kissed beaches, endless relaxation, and the luxury of time. While these delightful musings have their place, retirement also comes with its own set of responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities. Think of it as a full-time commitment to the most important project yet: yourself.

Whether you're a forward-thinker who began strategizing for retirement early in your career or you've had an epiphany at 60 about the approaching golden years, it's never too late or too early to start planning. The cornerstone of an enriching retirement lies in acknowledging your starting point, embracing the journey, and being transparent about your aspirations and limitations.

In today’s dynamic world, the definition of 'retirement' is continually evolving. Gone are the days of binary transitions from work to complete relaxation. With the advent of modern technology, many are seeking a blend, with flexible work engagements or pursuing passions that were once sidelined. Our course respects all paths, focusing on ensuring a retirement that's independent of mandatory work, yet rich in optional pursuits.

It's undeniable: sacrifices and choices will shape your path to retirement. You might have to tighten your belt, endure a few more years in a challenging job, or even navigate the turbulent waters of workplace politics. While it's tempting to fixate on the negatives, we encourage a paradigm shift. Instead of viewing them as burdens, see them as choices steering you towards a fulfilling retirement.

Envision the boundless potential retirement brings: diving deep into novels, embarking on thrilling travels, indulging in creative ventures, or even attempting that stand-up comedy gig you've always dreamt of! Throughout our prime years, responsibilities often eclipse our true desires. Retirement is the perfect canvas to paint those dreams.

By anchoring your retirement vision in pursuits that genuinely ignite your passion, the journey becomes less about sacrifice and more about choices that pave the way to a fulfilling life. This positive mindset not only makes the preparatory phase more enjoyable but also allows you to embrace retirement with vigor and zest.

From financial planning and health considerations to rediscovering lost hobbies and spending quality time with loved ones, we guide you step-by-step. Remember, it's not about counting down to retirement; it's about making every moment of the journey, and the retirement itself, count. Embrace the adventure, plan with purpose, and let’s create a retirement story that resonates with joy, fulfillment, and unparalleled freedom.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define the concept of retirement and distinguish it from the cessation of responsibilities.
  • Identify and evaluate potential activities and responsibilities that can enhance life satisfaction during retirement.
  • Define the key financial milestones necessary for effective retirement planning, such as starting and maximizing contributions to retirement accounts and avoiding withdrawal penalties.
  • Identify non-financial aspects of retirement, including psychological readiness and lifestyle planning, and create a personalized retirement plan addressing these elements.
  • Define and explain key retirement terms and acronyms to accurately demonstrate foundational knowledge of retirement planning jargon.
  • Identify and differentiate between various types of retirement plans by outlining their unique contributions and benefits structures.
  • Define the steps necessary to optimize a 401(k) contribution plan by maximizing employer matching and gradually increasing personal contributions.
  • Identify key factors influencing retirement risk tolerance and investment strategies, considering age, health, and income.
  • Demonstrate the ability to calculate the estimated financial needs for a successful retirement by evaluating current and future expenses.
  • Describe strategies to emotionally and socially transition into retirement by assessing personal preparedness and potential family impacts.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the health risks associated with delaying retirement from a stressful, full-time job for Type A personalities.
  • Identify alternative activities and career paths post-retirement that fulfill Type A personalities' needs for purpose and engagement.
  • Identify the key relationships you want to maintain in retirement and create a plan to nurture these connections.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 
 

Assessment Guide

Assessment Points
Why this Course? 1 points
Lesson 1: Its a Retirement from Work, Not a Retirement from Life 9 points
Lesson 2 Activity 1 points
Lesson 2: Milestones in Retirement Preparedness 10 points
Lesson 3 Activity 1 points
Lesson 3: Investing and Saving for Retirement (Part 1) 10 points
Lesson 4: Investing and Saving for Retirement (Part 2) 9 points
Lesson 5: When is the Right Time to Retire? An Assessment of Money, Self, Family, and Work 10 points
Lesson 6 Activity 1 points
Lesson 6: Why Retire? Retirement for Type A Personalities 10 points
Lesson 7 Activity 1 points
Lesson 7: The Nouns of Retirement: People, Places, and Things 10 points
Lesson 8 Activity 1 points
Lesson 8: Finding a New Purpose 10 points
Lesson 9: The Health Risks of Retirement 10 points
Lesson 10: Retirement and Your Marriage 10 points
Lesson 11 Activity 1 points
Lesson 11: Retirement and Education 10 points
Lesson 12: Developing New Hobbies 10 points
The Final Exam 28 points