What Reviewers Are Saying

“Here is a terrific, well written, lucid exploration of all those issues about retirement that are so often neglected in favor of a focus on finances. Whether you are already retired or far from retirement, you will find insights into the way that you think about your work and the act of leaving it. Young people will find the book useful for understanding what parents and grandparents are experiencing. Retirees will be surprised at challenges they may never have considered and, more importantly, ways of thinking that will help them construct personal solutions.”

“Best retirement book I’ve read. But It’s a great book for anyone facing a professional transition. I wish I had had something similar to guide me when I decided to leave the workforce to stay home with my children years ago. Looking forward to using it to guide my future retirement plans and, in the meantime, am giving copies to all my friends/family members who are in their 50s/60s for Christmas this year.”

“Whether retirement is staring you in the face, or still decades away, this is the one book you should read before entering what could be the longest -- and possibly the most important -- chapter in your life. While there are dozens of good guides to the financial aspects of retirement -- and thousands of "financial advisors" are scattered across the landscape, Ted Kaufman and Bruce Hiland have provided something far more rare and, honestly, much more important: How to Define Your Retirement Rather than Letting Retirement Define You!”

“This is a superb package. Each time I read it I realize that this is as much a philosophy book as it is a guidebook.  It’s about deciding what to do with the last third of your life and recognizing how much harder that is than the first two-thirds, when you are more clearly aiming at something tangible: success.”

“This book is a step-by step discussion of the important questions that need to be asked and answered by every current Boomer and should be read by the next generation to prepare for what is surely coming. The book does this without being preachy or pedantic. I'm one of those who "loves his job" and does not see myself retiring soon. But change is coming and the book helps to navigate the tough questions for those who are lucky enough to "love" our jobs but just as relevant to those who don't and want to find the best way to move on. A real contribution to moving through these difficult questions.”

“One size does not fit all. Their work is thoughtful, well written, pithy and an easy read. They address the what and the where or retirement, and matters of the body, brain, heart and soul, the latter most ably so and without being preachy. From suggestions as general as "give back" to advice as specific as "be a mentor", it's all here. Bravo Ted and Bruce!”

“I wish I had read this book when I retired a few years ago and couldn’t get used to my phone not ringing and some of my calls being unreturned. For some of us, the financial planning part of retirement is fairly easy. This book is filled with tips and wisdom about all the other, equally important elements of retirement planning. If you are contemplating retirement, it is a must read. And if you are already retired, you’ll find a lot of “why didn’t I think of that” advice that may just make your life more enjoyable.”

“Wise, been-there-done-that advice about how to make the next chapter in your life exciting and rewarding. The authors show how to make a retirement plan that will enrich your body, brain, and soul — and your community. In giving us the benefit of their own significant lived experience, they demonstrate that there need be nothing retiring about retirement! Includes a valuable resource list, including those particularly relevant to women. I'm finding this book so helpful.”

“This book is brilliant! The concept of "retirement" has changed so dramatically in the past few decades, that all of the old rules no longer apply. It is well written and comprehensive, but also very accessible, with simple, actionable steps to help you figure out what's next. They ask the right questions, and you design the roadmap! I highly recommend.”

“Dreaming or thinking about retiring? If you believe the best books are those that make you think, then get this book. It is the most thought-provoking book on retirement that I have read. It is a fabulous guide and resource of how to get there and what to expect.”

 “Kaufman & Hiland write with a plain-spoken appeal, and in very human terms, about a question we -- at least me -- usually think about just in financial terms. It was both interesting and comforting to have retirement issues presented in a completely different light.”