Retirement Redefined: From Green Tees to the Danube

Last summer, I reflected on the idea of choosing your own path in retirement—symbolized by my decision to not play from the green tees during a golf tournament. That moment sparked a deeper realization: retirement isn’t a one-size-fits-all destination. It’s a journey, and it should be one you design intentionally.

Recently, my wife Cathy and I took a European river cruise that brought this idea to life in a new way.

River Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises: A Different Kind of Journey

Before diving into the personal side of our trip, let me share a quick comparison for those considering travel as part of their retirement lifestyle:

Rediscovering Purpose in Retirement

Our river cruise began in Amsterdam, passed through Nuremberg and Vienna, and ended in Budapest. Each day offered guided excursions or the freedom to explore on our own. Cathy and I even biked along the Danube—retracing a route I had cycled 14 years earlier from Regensburg to Vienna.

I’ll admit, I was a bit apprehensive. I tend to lean into active travel, and I wasn’t sure if a cruise would feel too sedentary. But I was pleasantly surprised—not only by the variety of activities, but also by the diversity of fellow travelers. While I expected mostly older, retired couples, we met people of all ages and backgrounds: a sod farmer from Canada, a retired surgeon from Texas, and a recently retired CPA from Minnesota who was eager to spend more time with his grandchildren.

These conversations reminded me that retirement is not about stepping away from life—it’s about stepping into a new chapter with intention.

Planning Beyond the Numbers

As a financial planner, I often help clients prepare for retirement by focusing on the numbers: income replacement, investment strategies, healthcare costs. Just as important is the lifestyle plan:

• What will you do each day?
• Where will you spend your time?
• Who will you spend it with?

For me, retirement doesn’t mean stopping work. It means continuing to write, meet with clients, and help others navigate their financial journeys. It also means making space for travel, family, and reflection—like turning off Wi-Fi on the cruise and trusting my team back home to keep things running smoothly.

Your Retirement, Your Way

Whether you’re already retired or just beginning to plan, I encourage you to think beyond the spreadsheets. Retirement is your opportunity to design a life that reflects your values, passions, and dreams. So whether it’s choosing your own golf tees or biking along the Danube, remember: this is your time. Make it count.

If you’re looking for a trusted guide to help navigate the journey of financial and retirement planning, TFG is here for you. Give us a call – we’d be happy to meet and discuss your long-term goals, and help you build a future that’s as fulfilling as it is secure.