Episode 212

Who Are You? - with Laura Barker

Published on: 1st January, 2023

Laura Barker spent 20+ years in HR before deciding to step away and become a career coach. She now helps people find meaningful work that is aligned with their purpose.

In retirement, some people struggle with feelings of loss of purpose. All our adult lives, we are introduced to people as someone who "does something" - you're a lawyer, a plumber, a football player. But once we retire, that helpful crutch is gone and many of us are left floundering to describe ourselves when asked "What do you do?"

The key is that "what you do" is not the important factor anymore. "Who you are" takes on a new importance. Learning to establish your priorities and values in life is paramount to your happiness in retirement.

Laura feels that journalling can help us figure out our purpose. She mentioned The Artist's Way, by Julia Cameron, as a helpful program on journalling, for those unfamiliar with the process.

On Laura's website, https://laurabarkercoaching.com, she offers a free mini-course on getting present - teaching you how to become happier with who you are and where you are in your life, in less than 5 minutes per day. Check it out here.

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About the Podcast

Beyond Retirement
What really happens after retirement?

If you’re approaching retirement—or already there—and wondering what now?, you’re not alone. The world is full of financial advice for retirement, but there’s far less about how to actually live a fulfilling life once the 9-to-5 ends.

Beyond Retirement is the podcast that explores what comes after the career chapter. Whether your retirement was planned or unexpected, joyful or jarring, you’ll find real stories, honest conversations, and practical inspiration here.

Join host Jacquie Doucette as she shares her own journey and speaks with people who’ve reimagined life after work—some fully retired, some shifting gears, and all discovering new meaning in this next stage. From finding purpose to building community, embracing play, and navigating change, we’ll explore how to create a life that truly fits.

Because retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning.

Let’s figure out what comes next, together.

About your host

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Jacquie Doucette