Smart Women Don’t Retire-They Break Free!

by: The Transition Network and Gail Rentsch

Published by: Springboard Press

Reviewed by Lisa Benton

Smart Women Don’t Retire-They Break Free is a guide to retirement written for women, by a group of women known as The Transition Network. With the help of Gail Rentsch, this social network of women created a discussion forum that led to the creation of this book, a women’s guide to creating her ideal retirement. The book is based on the premise that retirement should not be an ending, but rather a continuation of life during which a woman might actualize her full potential through meaningful, fulfilling activities.

The book covers a variety of topics ranging from the history behind retirement and the value of an active lifestyle–to financial planning tips geared towards women. The authors offer encouragement for women to become financially savvy and offer concrete tips for doing so. Real-life vignettes, practical financial planning advice, and creative ideas for retirement are used to convey the idea that the choices during this life phase can be unlimited. The authors are sensitive to women’s multiple roles in life, particularly motherhood and other caretaker responsibilities, and encourage readers to take advantage of this newfound freedom to explore more meaningful, fulfilling options during retirement.

Most women will find a new definition of retirement, validation for making creative choices, and social support for doing so within the pages of this book. This user-friendly guide is a must read for any female who wishes to effectively plan for the future. Those women already enjoying retirement may find creative ideas that will expand their current way of thinking, thereby improving their overall quality of life.

Armchair Interviews says: Ideal timing with so many Baby Boomers on the brink of retirement