When I grew up, we were told a story about retirement: work hard for 40 years, save as much as you can, then retire around 65 and finally start living.
But what if that model doesn’t fit anymore?
What if we’ve outgrown the idea of life as a straight line from work to rest?
More and more people, especially globally mobile professionals and expats, are starting to question whether deferring all rest, travel, or personal growth to some future age is really the wisest way to live. Life is unpredictable. And burnout, stress, or simple curiosity often don’t wait politely until retirement age.
This is why people are talking about the idea of a “mini-retirement.”
Rather than a single, distant destination, this approach imagines retirement as something you can sprinkle into your working life. A season to slow down, recharge, pivot, explore. Not a holiday, and not a full stop; more like a deep breath.
It might be a six-month sabbatical to study, write, or travel with your family. It could be a year off to volunteer, reflect, or relocate. Or simply working less intensively for a few years while you raise children, care for loved ones, or pursue other goals. The point isn’t to sell everything and disappear, it’s to live more intentionally along the way.
Here’s why I think it’s a good conversation to have…
Mini-retirements can lead to deeper life satisfaction and a better work-life rhythm. They can help prevent burnout and allow you to step back before life demands it through illness or exhaustion. And they give you the space to reflect on what matters, without waiting for some distant milestone.
For expats and location-flexible professionals, the opportunity is even richer. If you’re living in France, South Africa, or some other beautiful corner of the world, why wait until 65 to enjoy it? With the right planning, you can make space to live more fully now, not just someday.
But what about the money?
It’s a fair question. Taking time off or working less does have a financial impact, but it doesn’t have to be reckless.
Here’s where thoughtful financial planning comes in:
- Save with purpose. Building a fund specifically for a planned break changes the conversation. It’s no longer an indulgence; it’s part of your plan.
- Reduce debt where possible. Fewer obligations mean more flexibility when you need it most.
- Invest wisely and consistently. Even with pauses along the way, long-term investing is still key. The goal is sustainability and not perfection.
Ultimately, mini-retirements aren’t about escaping life; they’re about shaping it. They’re about recognising that time is as valuable as money and often more challenging to earn back.
So no, this isn’t a pitch to abandon the idea of traditional retirement. But it is an invitation to step back and ask: is there a different way to think about work, rest, and living well?
Because life doesn’t have to start at 65.
Curious about how a break could fit into your financial picture? Let’s talk.
