Thinking About Retiring in the Next 1–3 Years? Let the Hummingbird Inspire Your Journey

Ashley Walker
Aug 30
3 min read

Updated: Sep 2

This summer, I’ve found such joy in watching the hummingbirds flutter around the feeders and flowers at our seasonal campsite. They’re tiny, yet fierce—focused, agile, and purposeful. Their movements may seem delicate, but every choice they make is intentional.

As I sat watching them one quiet morning, I couldn’t help but think: there’s so much we can learn from these remarkable little birds, especially if you’re starting to think about retirement.

If retirement is on your horizon—within the next one to three years—you may find yourself searching for clarity, direction, or even permission to slow down and dream a little. That’s the perfect place to begin. Retirement isn’t a finish line. It’s a new beginning. And like the hummingbird, it’s most powerful when approached with intention.

Five Gentle Lessons from the Hummingbird as You Prepare for Retirement

1. Focus on What Truly Matters

Hummingbirds don’t waste energy. They go straight to the source of nourishment—what fuels them. As you look ahead to retirement, consider what brings you joy, meaning, and energy. Use this time to reflect on your core values, the people and activities that light you up, and what kind of life you want to build in your next chapter.

2. Embrace Your Unique Strengths

Though small, hummingbirds play a vital role in their ecosystem. You do too. The wisdom, leadership, and experience you’ve gathered over the years matter deeply. Now’s the time to ask yourself: How would I love to share my gifts moving forward? That might mean consulting, mentoring, volunteering, or exploring creative passions you’ve put on hold.

3. Stay Agile and Open

Hummingbirds are always adapting—they adjust course in an instant. As you transition into retirement, flexibility will be your greatest ally. Plans will evolve. Interests may shift. Give yourself room to experiment, try new things, and change your mind. The most fulfilling opportunities often appear when we’re open to the unexpected.

4. Nurture Your Connections

Hummingbirds are known for their independence—but they return again and again to the places that nourish them. As you prepare for retirement, think about the people and relationships that do the same for you. Now is the perfect time to deepen meaningful connections, reinvest in friendships and build a strong circle of support. You may be stepping away from a career, but you don’t have to do this next chapter alone. The relationships you cultivate now will enrich your days and sustain your spirit in the years ahead.

5. Give Yourself Time to Pause and Reflect

Even hummingbirds make the time to rest. So should you. Take these next few years to celebrate milestones, appreciate how far you’ve come, and gently imagine what’s next. Retirement isn’t something you rush into. It’s something you step into—with care, courage, and clarity.

Retiring with confidence isn’t just about having your financial ducks in a row. It’s about knowing who you are, what matters most, and how you want to spend this next season of life. So, ask yourself:

What fills me with energy and purpose?
How do I want to show up in the world going forward?
What do I need to explore, heal, or celebrate before I take that next step?

You’ve spent a lifetime making a difference. Your next chapter can be just as meaningful—and even more personally fulfilling.

Are you ready to take the first step?

Start by taking my Retirement Readiness Quiz, you’ll gain immediate insight into how prepared you feel (or don’t feel!) for this transition. Or, if you’re ready for a more personal conversation, schedule a free consultation call with me. I’d love to hear your story and help you begin shaping a retirement that’s truly your own.