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You Didn't Retire From Responsibility
As democracy feels increasingly fragile, many retirees are tempted to tune out. This essay argues the opposite: that staying engaged is essential to personal vitality, moral alignment, and meaningful relationships in retirement.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jan 95 min read


Retirement Doesn't Fix Relationships--Intention Does
Relational Health and the Courage to Love Well I’m not particularly a religious man, but scripture gets something right when it suggests that perhaps our greatest human capacity is to love and to be loved. That idea shows up repeatedly in my work with clients—sometimes plainly, more often quietly or “between the lines.” It surfaces in stories about tense (holiday) dinners, adult children who feel distant, friendships that have thinned out, and sometimes a low-grade lonelines

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Dec 18, 20254 min read


Retirement Well-Being Isn’t a Straight Line
Retirement well-being isn't a straight line. Typically, it's fraught with peaks and valleys. The Flourishing Retiree help retirees reduce or remove "the dips" in retirement.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Nov 20, 20254 min read


Does Retiring Early Shorten Your Life?
Does retiring early shorten your life? Studies show that purpose, connection, movement, and rest—not your retirement date—are what truly keep you thriving longer.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Oct 19, 20255 min read


Think You're Almost Ready to Retire?
Thinking about retiring soon? Before you hand in your badge and bake your farewell cake, read this. Retirement isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a life decision. In this blog, I share a real story that still sticks with me, explore why timing matters more than most people realize, and explain why having a “vitality plan” is just as essential as a retirement fund. Your go-go years won’t last forever. Plan for more than just money—plan for meaning.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Aug 15, 20255 min read


Is This It?
Not every retiree feels like they’ve hit the jackpot—and that’s more common than you think. This post digs into the quiet question many ask but few admit out loud: “Is this it?” If you’re stuck between freedom and frustration, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about why retirement doesn’t always feel like the dream—and what you can do about it.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Aug 7, 20254 min read


The Four Seasons of Flourish
Retirement isn’t one long summer vacation. It’s a series of seasons—each with its own energy, purpose, and rhythm. In this blog, Dr. Steve Sandoval invites you to rethink retirement by aligning your habits and mindset with the actual seasons of the year. Whether you’re planting new ideas in spring, reconnecting in summer, harvesting meaning in fall, or resting deeply in winter—this seasonal approach can bring structure and vitality to your life after work.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jul 28, 20255 min read


The Existential Audit
This isn’t another retirement checklist. It’s a wake-up call. Ask yourself the questions that actually matter—before another decade slips by unnoticed.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jul 16, 20253 min read


Rediscovering the Multitudes Within You
Retirement isn’t the end. It’s the start of rediscovering everything you shelved for decades. You’re not done—you contain multitudes. Read more.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jul 7, 20254 min read


Why I Do This Work
Retirement is often seen as the ultimate freedom, but it can also bring a quiet sense of loss—especially when we miss feeling needed. In my latest blog, I explore how retirees can rediscover purpose, reignite passion, and find meaningful ways to contribute. It’s time to shift from just “existing” to truly flourishing.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jun 30, 20254 min read


The Retirement Lie: That You'll Just 'Figure It Out' Later
Flourishing in retirement doesn’t come from waiting around—it comes from small, intentional steps taken on purpose, not by default.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jun 19, 20254 min read


Do You Miss Being Needed? Good. Let's Use That.
Retirement can bring unexpected emptiness—not because you're lazy, but because no one's asking for your help anymore. This blog explores how that ache to be needed isn't a weakness—it's a compass. And it might just point you toward your most meaningful chapter yet.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jun 13, 20254 min read


What If You Were Brave--Now?
What if the boldest thing you do in retirement isn’t skydiving or moving abroad—but choosing to live with intention? This post invites you to reconsider what bravery looks like in this chapter of life and why now is the time to take the leap.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
Jun 5, 20254 min read


Retirement Isn't the Opposite of Work
Retirement isn’t the end of purpose—it’s the perfect time to redefine it. In this post, explore how life after work can be just as driven, meaningful, and fulfilling when you align your next chapter with what truly matters most.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
May 29, 20253 min read


Why Your Existential Retirement Plan Shouldn’t Look Like Your Neighbor’s
Your retirement path shouldn't be a copy of your neighbor's—and it doesn’t have to be. This post unpacks why a one-size-fits-all approach falls flat and how crafting a personalized, values-driven plan can lead to a richer, more authentic retirement experience.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
May 28, 20253 min read


Why Taking the Existential Vitality Index™ Isn’t as Scary as You Think
Worried that taking a life assessment might feel overwhelming or too revealing? The Existential Vitality Index™ is designed to be insightful, not intimidating. This post breaks down what to expect—and why it might just be the most empowering step you take in retirement.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
May 21, 20254 min read


The Flourishing Retiree: Living Beyond the Numbers
Flourishing in retirement is more than just financial planning--it's about vitality planning.

Steve Sandoval, Ph.D.
May 13, 20254 min read
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