Planning to retire and move abroad at the same time? Discover how to manage this powerful life transition with practical tips on identity, structure, and creating purpose after retirement abroad.

Moving abroad and retiring are two major life events—and doing them at the same time? That’s a powerful (and potentially overwhelming) combination.

Many people dream of retiring in a foreign country, whether for a lower cost of living, adventure, or a new lifestyle. But what often goes unspoken is how difficult it can be to manage both transitions simultaneously.

As an intercultural psychologist and expat coach, I’ve worked with many people navigating this exact path. And I can tell you—there are ways to make it easier, more meaningful, and a lot more joyful.

Let’s talk about what’s really going on beneath the surface—and what you can do about it.

When you retire and relocate abroad, you’re not just changing your location. You’re also shifting:

• Your daily routine

• Your social network

• Your professional identity

• Your sense of purpose
  

That’s a lot for anyone. And yet, we often blame the move itself when we feel out of sorts.

“Maybe this country isn’t for me…”
“I don’t feel like I belong here.”
“Why is everything so hard?”

But often, what we’re experiencing is not just culture shock—it’s the impact of retirement mixed with relocation.

Let’s unpack three powerful tips to help you navigate this chapter smoothly.

So much of our identity is wrapped up in what we do.

Think about it: one of the first questions people ask is, “What do you do?”

 When you retire, you suddenly lose that piece of your identity—and when you move abroad at the same time, you may also lose the familiar people, places, and rhythms that once gave your life structure.

Ask yourself:

• How much of my self-worth is tied to my career?

• What roles do I want to embrace now?

• What gives me a sense of contribution and meaning?
  

This awareness can help you proactively create a new version of self—one that’s not defined by a job title, but by intention and joy.

One common trap retirees fall into is the lack of routine. At first, it’s liberating. No more alarms! No more meetings!
But after a few months, it can lead to a feeling of drift.

In a new country—where language barriers, fewer social connections, and cultural differences exist—this can amplify loneliness or disorientation.

Instead, create a light routine:

• Sign up for a weekly class (art, language, fitness—whatever excites you)
• Join a social or cultural group
• Volunteer for a cause you care about
• Set small rituals in your day (like morning walks or journaling)
  

You don’t need to fill every hour. But having places to be and things to look forward to gives your week a rhythm that supports your mental and emotional well-being.

Some people try to “replace” their old work schedule by overbooking their retirement life. Others swing in the opposite direction and end up feeling disengaged or isolated.

The sweet spot? Balance.

• Make time for fun, travel, and exploration

• Give yourself permission to rest

• Choose meaningful, low-pressure ways to contribute (like volunteering or mentoring)
  

Volunteering abroad is a popular choice for many retirees. It provides purpose and connection, without the stress of a formal job. Just be sure to commit to something that genuinely excites you—it’s still a form of work, after all.

This book is a must-read for anyone going through a big life change—and it’s one I recommend in my Expat Journey Program. It beautifully breaks down the emotional process behind life transitions and how to move through them with clarity and intention.

The expatriate lifestyle after retirement can be rich, fulfilling, and adventurous. But it also requires self-awareness, planning, and support.

By honoring both the emotional and practical aspects of retirement and relocation, you can turn this dual transition into an exciting, empowering new chapter.

I offer expat coaching for retirees, including one-on-one sessions and a all-in-one membership designed to help you feel confident, purposeful, and supported in your move abroad. Learn more here: www.deborahdahab.com/workwithme