Retirement is an important milestone in life, but it doesn’t have to mean an abrupt end to your career. Many people choose to phase into retirement by working part-time or reducing their workload gradually. This can be a smart way to ease into retirement while maintaining some income and social connections.

If you’re considering a phased retirement or part-time work, here are some steps to help you plan and prepare:

1. Evaluate your financial situation

Before you make any decisions, it’s important to take a good look at your finances. Do you have enough savings to support a reduced income? What are your retirement goals, and how will your part-time work or phased retirement fit into them? Consider consulting with a financial advisor to help you plan and evaluate your options.

2. Explore your options

Next, research the opportunities available to you. Talk to your employer about the possibility of reducing your hours or transitioning to a part-time role. You may also want to explore freelance or consulting work, or consider starting your own business.

3. Consider your skills and interests

When planning for a phased retirement or part-time work, it’s important to consider what you want to do. Think about your skills and interests, and how you can apply them to a new role or venture. This is a great opportunity to pursue work that you’re passionate about, whether that’s in a different field or a related one.

4. Develop a plan

Once you’ve explored your options and identified your interests, it’s time to develop a plan. Determine how much time you want to spend working each week, and what your income needs are. Consider the logistics of transitioning to part-time work, such as how you’ll handle health insurance and retirement contributions.

5. Communicate with your employer

If you’re planning to transition to part-time work with your current employer, it’s important to communicate your plans early and often. Discuss your goals and interests with your manager, and work together to create a plan that meets both your needs and those of the organization. Be open to negotiating the terms of your part-time work, such as scheduling and responsibilities.

6. Stay connected

As you phase into retirement, it’s important to stay connected with your colleagues and industry. Attend networking events and conferences, and consider volunteering or mentoring others in your field. Staying active and engaged can help you maintain your skills and connections, and may lead to new opportunities in the future.

Phased retirement or part-time work can be a great way to ease into retirement while staying active and engaged. By planning and preparing carefully, you can create a transition that works for you and your employer.