What Next? by Jane Moffett

WHAT NEXT? by Jane Moffett is subtitled “The savvy woman’s guide to redefining retirement.” I had expected to see more about financial preparation for retirement, particularly when that is often such a trial for women. Moffett barely touches on that aspect; instead she has chosen to focus more narrowly on advising her readers on the importance of assessing who and what are important in their lives. As the publisher’s summary points out, she asks: “How will you fill your time in a way that has purpose and meaning, and how will you keep the sense of being relevant and valued?” The first four chapters deal with making the decision to retire, the contrast with earlier generations, women’s careers, and the impact of ageism. Then there are six chapters which correspond to “post-retirement” topics like a change in time and structure or re-assessing relationships. Moffett structures each chapter so as to first discuss the topic, then provide insight and perspective from at least two women, and then to include activities and exercises for the readers. Even though her perspective is primarily about retirement in the UK (who knew that men (65) and women (60) had different pension ages until adjustments to equalize them began in 2010?), she shares some universal observations (e.g., the blending of work and home boundaries and the negative impact on mental health) that would be helpful to everyone in this phase of life. Notes and an index are included.