Building a Lasting Retirement—Inspired by Rome

Ashley Walker
Nov 11, 2025
2 min read

The first night we arrived in Italy, our daughter texted us to let us know that she saw on Facebook that my husband’s cousin and his wife also arrived in Rome that same day. We reached out to them and discovered that we were a 4-minute walk away from where they were staying! We met for a wonderful dinner and then together we took a taxi over to Trevi Fountain.

When I tossed a coin into the Trevi Fountain, I joined millions of others who’ve made a wish in that same spot for centuries. Later, as I stood inside the Vatican Museums, surrounded by priceless works of art, and walked into the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, I felt the weight of history, tradition, and vision all around me.

What struck me most was this: none of these masterpieces, whether a fountain, a painting, or a cathedral, were created overnight. They were the result of vision, patience, and countless small steps that came together to build something lasting.

And isn’t that exactly what retirement requires?

When we think about retirement planning, our first thought often goes to finances. And while that’s important, what truly sustains us is a foundation built on four other pillars:

Purpose: What will give your days meaning when the structure of work is gone?
Wellness: How will you nurture your health, energy, and spirit?
Connection: Who will you share this chapter with?
Vision: Can you picture what your days, weeks, and years will look like?

During our time in Rome, I was reminded that the most enduring legacies are built on intention. Retirement works the same way—if we don’t plan for the parts of life that matter most, we risk leaving this next chapter to chance.

So, let me ask you:

What are you “building” now that will carry you into retirement?
Which pillar feels strong—and which one could use more attention?

Rome’s treasures didn’t appear overnight, and neither will a fulfilling retirement. With purpose, vision and intention you can create something beautiful that will last.