Retirement cannot be defined the same for all people. The message extended to a person should reflect that particular individual’s decision to retire. Fortunately, for most of us, retirement is a personal choice. It isn’t always the easiest decision to make and does take careful thought and planning. What we say should also have the same consideration.

Retirement is a Beginning

Retirement is no longer the end of a person’s productive working life. Today many people retire at a young age from a first career to move into a second career. Some people even retire to complete a postponed degree, an advanced degree or even begin a degree. Congratulations should be extended to these workers. They are not retiring- they are graduating. Words of achievement mixed with the congratulations express the sentiment appropriately.

• “Congratulations as you strive to achieve the next fork in your continued life’s journey”
• “You were never one to take life slow- good luck with your continued success”
• “Life is a highway- but, can’t you slow down to 55?”
• “It won’t be the same here without you and you won’t be the same with your new endeavors. Congratulations!”
• “Wherever you go and whatever you do will be magnificent- just like you!”

Retirement is a Long Awaited Goal

Retirement for many is the opportunity to achieve a much anticipated life-long goal. Traveling, spending time with family and devotion to a hobby are some of the goals people set for themselves. The silly jokes are more appropriate for these types of retirement.

• “Happy Travels to You!”
• “Your day has come to enjoy all you have worked for- Congratulations”
• “I have only these three little words to say to you, ‘I envy You!’”
• “You’ve worked a long time to have some time to enjoy your favorite past-time. Congratulations.”

Retirement is Retirement

Some people just wait for the day to clock out for the very last time with no plan for what is next. That doesn’t mean their retirement is not just as happy an occasion as the others. A plain, sincere “Happy Retirement” is always a welcome and safe sentiment.