If you’re a dentist that is nearing retirement, congratulations to you! You’ve worked hard for many years, probably even decades, and you finally made it to the end. But, you might have mixed feelings about retirement as you contemplate these questions.
- Will you miss your patients?
- What will you do with your time?
- Will the practice survive without you?
- How will you keep busy?
- Did you save enough money?
Bryant Consultants and our dental practice transitions consultant, Tony Myers, want to share some tips on adjusting to retirement. We get it, you’re about to step away from everything that you’ve worked for and known for probably several decades, and might even be selling your practice, or handing over the keys to an aspiring new dentist that you trust. Find out how to make this transition less stressful.
Allow Time to Adjust
No matter what anyone tells you or how put together everything actually is, retiring is going to be an adjustment. It’s ok to feel a little panicked, or guilty, these are normal emotions. Just give yourself some time to work through these feelings as you adjust to retirement. These feelings will fade as you begin finding your way.
Keep Setting and Working Toward Goals
When you’ve worked as an owner dentist, you probably thrived on setting and reaching daily, weekly, and monthly goals. That doesn’t have to change just because you aren’t going to be practicing dentistry any longer. While your goals may look different, continue working towards what is important to you on this new journey.
Maintain Structure
Lack of structure can make you feel lost. You’re used to working in a fast-paced environment, letting the patient schedule dictate your workday. Working full-time probably meant you rarely had much relaxing time on the weekends. There were always errands, housework, and preparing for the upcoming work week. But, you still need structure in your day. Set a routine that includes daily exercise, socialization, self-care, and maybe even some volunteering. Take time to sit down and enjoy meals with your family. Focus on filling your days with what you enjoy – the things you always said you never had time for.
Learn Something New
Did you always wish you had time to take up a new hobby or get better at something? Maybe you wanted to perfect your golf swing, or take dance or cooking classes. Now is the time for these activities! You’re never too old to learn something. Just think, you actually have time to tackle that DIY project you always talked about doing!
Work Part-Time
There’s nothing wrong with missing your passion and wanting to still be apart of dentistry. You might consider working half a day or a few full days a month at your old practice, or with a new one. Working part-time means that you can enjoy what you do, without the stress and burden of running the whole practice again. There’s also the option of volunteering your time and skills to underserved communities.
Pave the Path
In retirement, just like any other major phase in life, expect to get unsolicited advice on how you should spend your time. While some of that advice may be helpful, just remember to be flexible and take things slow. This is your time to pave the path for your retirement. It’s supposed to be the “golden years,” so don’t let anyone tarnish it!
Still not sure how to take that big step toward retirement? Start by finding the right dental practice transitions coach. Once you’re ready to take that first step, complete our online practice transition questionnaire to learn more or call (877) 768-4799 to schedule a consultation.
