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Encore: A High Achiever's Guide to Thriving in Retirement
“Accessible, practical, and important.”
—Kathy L. Brown, Independent Book Review
Embark on a journey to a new, energizing chapter of life.
At the crossroads of professional and personal life, Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons struggled to redefine purpose in life after a high-powered career. Searching for answers, she embarked on a transformative journey to discover new approaches to purpose, balance, and resilience.
If the prospect of retirement sparks anxiety, fear not—this comprehensive guide, crafted for high-achieving professionals, redefines retirement as a gateway to new opportunities, meaning, and accomplishment. Fusing the author’s expertise with cutting-edge research, it unveils a proven approach for envisioning, planning, and executing an ideal retirement.
In A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement, Elizabeth shatters stereotypes, offering strategies for embracing change, strategically navigating transitions, and carrying your existential motivators into retirement. Ditch quantitative success measures for qualitative ones, leverage strategic instability for continuous growth, and develop the mindset of a creator instead of a reactor. From expanding your relationship portfolio to adopting a strategy of confident control, the book presents actionable exercises to design a satisfying new life complete with meaningful engagement.
Unlike conventional retirement guides, Encore reframes retirement as a dynamic transition, akin to a graduation or promotion, positioning it as an opportunity for personal growth. For professionals seeking a productive, engaged, and purposeful next chapter, this guide is your go-to resource, offering a wealth of possibilities for resilience, reinvention, and a fulfilling encore.
Embark on a journey to a new, energizing chapter of life.
At the crossroads of professional and personal life, Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons struggled to redefine purpose in life after a high-powered career. Searching for answers, she embarked on a transformative journey to discover new approaches to purpose, balance, and resilience.
If the prospect of retirement sparks anxiety, fear not—this comprehensive guide, crafted for high-achieving professionals, redefines retirement as a gateway to new opportunities, meaning, and accomplishment. Fusing the author’s expertise with cutting-edge research, it unveils a proven approach for envisioning, planning, and executing an ideal retirement.
In A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement, Elizabeth shatters stereotypes, offering strategies for embracing change, strategically navigating transitions, and carrying your existential motivators into retirement. Ditch quantitative success measures for qualitative ones, leverage strategic instability for continuous growth, and develop the mindset of a creator instead of a reactor. From expanding your relationship portfolio to adopting a strategy of confident control, the book presents actionable exercises to design a satisfying new life complete with meaningful engagement.
Unlike conventional retirement guides, Encore reframes retirement as a dynamic transition, akin to a graduation or promotion, positioning it as an opportunity for personal growth. For professionals seeking a productive, engaged, and purposeful next chapter, this guide is your go-to resource, offering a wealth of possibilities for resilience, reinvention, and a fulfilling encore.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2025
22 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 12, 2025
Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement
Right off the bat, Zelinka hit me in the feels with her brief, but powerful description of a “human doing”, contrasted with that of a “human being”.
Are we “human doings”, instead of “human beings”?
As a lifelong high achiever, Zelinka worked day and night to ace her school grades, to graduate with high honors while working full time, and to start a family while working at one of the world’s top international firms. She had always believed you could power through life’s obstacles through hard work.
By age 35, she had already hit a tough, but necessary wall of reality: she was burnt out, and struggling in career, marriage and motherhood. When her high achiever inner child was out of answers, she resigned from her high powered law firm, sold her house, and moved to Tucson, Arizona. She had basically, in her own words, “front ended” her retirement by borrowing a decade early from it, by focusing on her family and motherhood, and then making some money later. That might mean her retirement could come at seventy instead of sixty, but it was a necessary choice.. until she found herself without answers again.
After basing a greater part of her self in her achievements and work, retiring from it to a place where no one had ever heard (nor cared to hear) of her prestigious law firm meant she quickly found her self esteem crumbling.
As she broke down, she journaled, realizing how she had become a “human doing”, and was now on her way to metamorphosize, through books of identity, spirituality and motivation, into a human being. She became a business owner and writer, but that did not happen overnight.
In her book, Zelinka tackles an often ignored and misunderstood subject: the confusing taboo of retirement, and how even the word retire, with its roots in Middle French, is uncomfortable because it means to “withdraw of pull back”.
But, why isn’t it seen as moving forward in a different way?
After creating her Encore program project, Zelinka worked over fifteen years guiding clients who had gone through a similar process as her to design a thoughtful plan for their next years after retirement, and explain to us readers, the emotional and mental stages that take place during the retirement process, and how to navigate these uncertain waters with compassion, love, and excitement.
Right off the bat, Zelinka hit me in the feels with her brief, but powerful description of a “human doing”, contrasted with that of a “human being”.
Are we “human doings”, instead of “human beings”?
As a lifelong high achiever, Zelinka worked day and night to ace her school grades, to graduate with high honors while working full time, and to start a family while working at one of the world’s top international firms. She had always believed you could power through life’s obstacles through hard work.
By age 35, she had already hit a tough, but necessary wall of reality: she was burnt out, and struggling in career, marriage and motherhood. When her high achiever inner child was out of answers, she resigned from her high powered law firm, sold her house, and moved to Tucson, Arizona. She had basically, in her own words, “front ended” her retirement by borrowing a decade early from it, by focusing on her family and motherhood, and then making some money later. That might mean her retirement could come at seventy instead of sixty, but it was a necessary choice.. until she found herself without answers again.
After basing a greater part of her self in her achievements and work, retiring from it to a place where no one had ever heard (nor cared to hear) of her prestigious law firm meant she quickly found her self esteem crumbling.
As she broke down, she journaled, realizing how she had become a “human doing”, and was now on her way to metamorphosize, through books of identity, spirituality and motivation, into a human being. She became a business owner and writer, but that did not happen overnight.
In her book, Zelinka tackles an often ignored and misunderstood subject: the confusing taboo of retirement, and how even the word retire, with its roots in Middle French, is uncomfortable because it means to “withdraw of pull back”.
But, why isn’t it seen as moving forward in a different way?
After creating her Encore program project, Zelinka worked over fifteen years guiding clients who had gone through a similar process as her to design a thoughtful plan for their next years after retirement, and explain to us readers, the emotional and mental stages that take place during the retirement process, and how to navigate these uncertain waters with compassion, love, and excitement.
January 4, 2025
Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons' Encore: A High Achiever's Guide to Thriving in Retirement is a vital resource for anyone facing the daunting transition from career to retirement. In a space often clouded by fear and uncertainty, Parsons highlights the inherent opportunities within this life stage. She expertly discusses the psychological aspects of retiring, addressing the anxiety and identity struggles that accompany the exit from a high-profile career. The book is filled with insightful passages and wisdom. The author observes that “the impending loss of a key professional role can feel like an approaching avalanche that will sweep all else along with it.” This powerful metaphor captures the overwhelming nature of retirement anxiety, illustrating how high achievers feel stripped of their identities as they transition. Parsons also introduces the transformative idea that retirement should be framed as “graduation” rather than “withdrawal.” She emphasizes the importance of re-examining purpose and motivation: “Understanding how one’s profession helps answer their core motivational desires for communion, agency, and coherence is important to designing new ways to meet those needs." Parsons offers an empowering message by encouraging readers to embrace their passions and explore new avenues for contribution. Her pioneering guidance illustrates how individuals can reshape their identities beyond professional titles and achieve fulfillment in their following life stages. "You want to move from reactor to creator," she advises, heralding a future ripe with potential and reinvention. In doing so, she deftly conveys that retirement can be a vibrant and enriching new chapter rather than a simple conclusion.
April 26, 2025
This book is a helpful guide for people who have worked hard all their lives and are now ready to wind down. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons shares her own story of moving from a high level busy career to a more of a restful & balanced life. She embraces retirement and explains that retirement doesn’t mean stopping everything. It is a fresh chance to find new purpose and joy. The book helps with few simple steps and exercises to work for you plan this new chapter of life.If you think like you'll feel anxious, lost or purposeless after stepping away from your career then this book is a guide to help you create a happy and active retirement which feels just as rewarding as work life.
The author writes about her years of experience as a retirement coach and, more importantly, her personal experience. She tackles multiple topics that one might need to prepare for on their retirement journey, be it financial, emotional, or social. To give you an idea of the range of topics covers, Parsons talks to things like how to shift your mentality from that of a saver to that of a spender, how to get on the same page as your spouse or partner about what your retirement years are going to look like, and even how and when to break the news and the pros and cons of different approaches.This book gives a very positive and proactive outlook on retirement.
The author writes about her years of experience as a retirement coach and, more importantly, her personal experience. She tackles multiple topics that one might need to prepare for on their retirement journey, be it financial, emotional, or social. To give you an idea of the range of topics covers, Parsons talks to things like how to shift your mentality from that of a saver to that of a spender, how to get on the same page as your spouse or partner about what your retirement years are going to look like, and even how and when to break the news and the pros and cons of different approaches.This book gives a very positive and proactive outlook on retirement.
March 8, 2025
Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Retirement is an engaging and enlightening book that will prepare people of all ages – middle and late middle especially – to prepare for their retirement.
The author, Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, writes about her years of experience as a retirement coach and, more importantly, her personal experience. She tackles multiple topics that one might need to prepare for on their retirement journey, be it financial, emotional, or social. To give you an idea of the range of topics covers, Parsons talks to things like how to shift your mentality from that of a saver to that of a spender, how to get on the same page as your spouse or partner about what your retirement years are going to look like, and even how and when to break the news and the pros and cons of different approaches.
What is really refreshing about the book is the stories of the people who she had guided on their retirement journey. Not only do they inspire confidence, they also show that this phase of life looks different for everyone and that there is no right way to do it. However, one can be prepared to make the most of these years.
The author, Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, writes about her years of experience as a retirement coach and, more importantly, her personal experience. She tackles multiple topics that one might need to prepare for on their retirement journey, be it financial, emotional, or social. To give you an idea of the range of topics covers, Parsons talks to things like how to shift your mentality from that of a saver to that of a spender, how to get on the same page as your spouse or partner about what your retirement years are going to look like, and even how and when to break the news and the pros and cons of different approaches.
What is really refreshing about the book is the stories of the people who she had guided on their retirement journey. Not only do they inspire confidence, they also show that this phase of life looks different for everyone and that there is no right way to do it. However, one can be prepared to make the most of these years.
April 19, 2025
A high achiever's guide to retirement by Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons is thoughtful and practical, helping the individual prepare for one of life's greatest transitions-the retirement. It is a solidly practical text for mid-lifers or those approaching their golden years who need gentle encouragement to plan ahead.
The uniqueness of this book lies in a combination of professional expertise and personal experience. As a retirement coach, Parsons shares not only her own experiences with clients but also those of people she has helped along the way. This book covers everything: from changing one's mindset from saving to spending, how to have that all-important conversation with your partner about shared goals, and even how to let your workplace know when the time comes.
I really enjoy it when she tells actual stories. They are refreshingly up-close and personal but inspirational and also remind us that there is no-one-way-fits-all approach to retirement. Everybody walks a different path, and the real value in preparedness is to know how best to walk it.
This is a great read for anyone beginning to give serious thought to the next stage after a long, busy career.
The uniqueness of this book lies in a combination of professional expertise and personal experience. As a retirement coach, Parsons shares not only her own experiences with clients but also those of people she has helped along the way. This book covers everything: from changing one's mindset from saving to spending, how to have that all-important conversation with your partner about shared goals, and even how to let your workplace know when the time comes.
I really enjoy it when she tells actual stories. They are refreshingly up-close and personal but inspirational and also remind us that there is no-one-way-fits-all approach to retirement. Everybody walks a different path, and the real value in preparedness is to know how best to walk it.
This is a great read for anyone beginning to give serious thought to the next stage after a long, busy career.
March 7, 2025
This is an important book for people "transitioning" into the retirement phase of life. The author, Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, brought a beautiful new way of looking at retirement to the forefront. Right off the bat, she introduces the concept of "human doings" vs. "human beings." I dropped my jaw at that idea.
This book is meant for those folks who have given their lives to their careers and are unsure what the sum meaning of it all meant, and how to move into the next phase of a professional life with purpose and intention. Parsons gently urges us to reconsider what success looks like by offering a financial, psychological, and professional guide to thriving in retirement. Unlike most other books about retirement, this book offers a human approach. While there is science-backed data, the true success of this book is the personal stories, the author's personal insights.
This would be a wonderful read for anyone thinking about retiring, or has retired. The wisdomfound in these pages will be infinitely helpful and comforting.
This book is meant for those folks who have given their lives to their careers and are unsure what the sum meaning of it all meant, and how to move into the next phase of a professional life with purpose and intention. Parsons gently urges us to reconsider what success looks like by offering a financial, psychological, and professional guide to thriving in retirement. Unlike most other books about retirement, this book offers a human approach. While there is science-backed data, the true success of this book is the personal stories, the author's personal insights.
This would be a wonderful read for anyone thinking about retiring, or has retired. The wisdomfound in these pages will be infinitely helpful and comforting.
February 23, 2025
When most people think of retiring, they are filled with fear because to "retire," means to quit or come to an end. Most people have been at their last held career for most of their lives and it has become their identity. They aren't human beings but human doings.
Zelinka Parsons learned at an early age to become an overachiever, make high marks in school, become a member of a prestigious law firm, and become a mother before age 35. But when she began to experience burn-out, at 35, she retired. It was then, that she began to seek different answers of how to move forward while answering the age-old question of "who am I?"
Fast forward and she found a new career in helping scores of retirees and those soon to retire how to navigate and find their second chapter in their lives.
I'd highly recommend this book if you're looking for your second chapter or soon to be looking for your second chapter in life.
Zelinka Parsons learned at an early age to become an overachiever, make high marks in school, become a member of a prestigious law firm, and become a mother before age 35. But when she began to experience burn-out, at 35, she retired. It was then, that she began to seek different answers of how to move forward while answering the age-old question of "who am I?"
Fast forward and she found a new career in helping scores of retirees and those soon to retire how to navigate and find their second chapter in their lives.
I'd highly recommend this book if you're looking for your second chapter or soon to be looking for your second chapter in life.
February 27, 2025
Redefining Retirement
Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons offers a refreshing and empowering perspective on retirement, reframing it as a new chapter of growth rather than an end to productivity. While the book is designed for seasoned professionals preparing to leave their careers, I found its wisdom relevant even at my stage in life. The idea of transitioning from a “human doing” to a “human being” was particularly thought-provoking, reminding me that fulfillment isn’t solely tied to career success but to purpose and intentional living.
What makes Encore stand out is its blend of research-backed strategies, personal insights, and real-life stories that bring the concepts to life. Parsons doesn’t just offer abstract advice—she provides a roadmap for navigating change with confidence and curiosity. This book would be a thoughtful and inspiring gift for anyone nearing retirement, offering them the tools to embrace this transition with excitement rather than uncertainty.
Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons offers a refreshing and empowering perspective on retirement, reframing it as a new chapter of growth rather than an end to productivity. While the book is designed for seasoned professionals preparing to leave their careers, I found its wisdom relevant even at my stage in life. The idea of transitioning from a “human doing” to a “human being” was particularly thought-provoking, reminding me that fulfillment isn’t solely tied to career success but to purpose and intentional living.
What makes Encore stand out is its blend of research-backed strategies, personal insights, and real-life stories that bring the concepts to life. Parsons doesn’t just offer abstract advice—she provides a roadmap for navigating change with confidence and curiosity. This book would be a thoughtful and inspiring gift for anyone nearing retirement, offering them the tools to embrace this transition with excitement rather than uncertainty.
February 26, 2025
Retirement isn’t about slowing down—it’s about shifting gears, and this book captures that perfectly. Parsons speaks directly to high achievers who aren’t content with just “taking it easy.”
Instead of seeing retirement as an endpoint, she reframes it as a new beginning—one filled with purpose, fulfilment, and even adventure.
What I loved most about this book is how practical and engaging it is. Parsons doesn’t just throw vague advice at you; she breaks things down into actionable steps.
It’s clear she understands the mindset of driven individuals who have spent years excelling in their careers and now wonder, What’s next?
If you’re the type who’s always been goal-oriented and you’re wondering how to channel that energy into your next phase of life, Encore is exactly what you need. Highly recommended for anyone who sees retirement as a fresh start rather than a finish line!
Instead of seeing retirement as an endpoint, she reframes it as a new beginning—one filled with purpose, fulfilment, and even adventure.
What I loved most about this book is how practical and engaging it is. Parsons doesn’t just throw vague advice at you; she breaks things down into actionable steps.
It’s clear she understands the mindset of driven individuals who have spent years excelling in their careers and now wonder, What’s next?
If you’re the type who’s always been goal-oriented and you’re wondering how to channel that energy into your next phase of life, Encore is exactly what you need. Highly recommended for anyone who sees retirement as a fresh start rather than a finish line!
March 5, 2025
What a well thought out and researched book! I'm not anywhere close to retirement but thought there was a lot of good information in here that one can start implementing now, especially when thinking about the future as retirement will eventually happen for everyone (hopefully). I like that this isn't just a list of things to do but that real life people and experiences are shared and how one can truly make retirement their own...not everyone will want to just sit around and relax, though that's okay too. It was a rewarding experience reading this and though I'm sure the author has real, paying clients seeking her guidance, I appreciate that she's put down this valuable information into a book that anyone can access. I particularly loved Chapter Eleven and the ultimate motto to enjoy the ride that is life.
April 20, 2025
This book is really well-thought-out and researched, and even though I'm not close to retirement, I found a lot of useful information that I can start putting into practice right now, especially when considering the future, since everyone will eventually retire (hopefully). I appreciate that this isn't just a list of things to do, but that real-life people and their experiences are shared, and that it explains how one can truly make retirement their own—not everyone will want to sit around and relax, though that's also acceptable. Reading this was fulfilling, and even though I'm sure the author has actual, paying clients looking to her for advice, I'm grateful that she's captured this important knowledge in a book that anybody can read. Chapter Eleven, with its final slogan to enjoy the trip that is life, was most appealing
April 21, 2025
The book offers a wealth of practical advice on how to approach a new search for identity and fulfillment, as well as some particularly unexpected and frequently inspiring examples of choices made by some of the author's clients. It is undoubtedly a guide for high achievers, especially those who the world has to offer as attaining success in professional services. Of course, it will be sufficient to consider modeled retirement lifestyles that are general and to which one cannot identify as a specific fit. As a former client, I found the book's most intriguing and thought-provoking topic to be, "out of the possible shortlist of possibilities, what would you actually do if success was guaranteed?" The book is incredibly well-written and organized, making it a delightful read. Strongly advised!
February 15, 2025
Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Thriving in Retirement by Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons is a part-memoire-part-guide that focuses on transitioning to retirement among individuals. Particularly career-driven individuals who have a history of success.
As someone who went through the process and guided dozens of others through the same, Parsons delivers practical and emotional advice. Her stories, borne from real experiences of hers and her clients in the Encore program, allow readers to gain actionable information while understanding that they are not alone in their feelings of anxiety during retirement.
This is a great book. I would recommend it for anyone who is in or about to enter the process of retirement.
As someone who went through the process and guided dozens of others through the same, Parsons delivers practical and emotional advice. Her stories, borne from real experiences of hers and her clients in the Encore program, allow readers to gain actionable information while understanding that they are not alone in their feelings of anxiety during retirement.
This is a great book. I would recommend it for anyone who is in or about to enter the process of retirement.
April 17, 2025
Encore is a useful and easy-to-read book for people who worked hard at their jobs and want a happy and satisfying retirement. The author, Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, tells her own story and actual stories of people whom she assisted. She demonstrates that retirement doesn't necessarily have to be about slowing down. It can be a period where individuals can expand, experiment with new things, and live life anew. The book provides straightforward guidance, easy exercises, and intelligent concepts to assist you in preparing for this next phase of life. It makes you consider what is truly important and how to remain engaged and content. A fine guidebook for anyone seeking more than mere relaxation in retirement.
April 20, 2025
Encore is a helpful and simple book for people who wish to have a happy and fulfilling retirement after putting in a lot of work at their professions. The author, Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons, shares both her personal narrative and the true accounts of those she helped. She proves that slowing down isn't the only thing that retirement can be. People may be able to grow, try new things, and start over during this time. To help you get ready for this next stage of your life, the book offers clear instructions, simple tasks, and insightful ideas. It forces you to reflect on your priorities and how to stay interested and satisfied. For anyone looking for more than just leisure in retirement, this is a great manual.
April 21, 2025
Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons brings a refreshing and empowering view of retirement in Encore, showing it as a new phase of growth, not the end of productivity. Though it’s aimed at professionals nearing retirement, I found her insights meaningful even at my stage of life.
Her idea of shifting from a “human doing” to a “human being” really stayed with me it’s a great reminder that true fulfillment comes from purpose, not just career success.
What makes this book shine is the mix of research, personal stories, and practical strategies. Parsons doesn’t just give advice she offers a clear path to move forward with confidence and curiosity.
A thoughtful and inspiring read perfect for anyone looking to embrace retirement as a fresh opportunity.
Her idea of shifting from a “human doing” to a “human being” really stayed with me it’s a great reminder that true fulfillment comes from purpose, not just career success.
What makes this book shine is the mix of research, personal stories, and practical strategies. Parsons doesn’t just give advice she offers a clear path to move forward with confidence and curiosity.
A thoughtful and inspiring read perfect for anyone looking to embrace retirement as a fresh opportunity.
February 14, 2025
Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons’ Encore is a well-crafted guide for high achievers looking to transition into retirement with purpose and fulfillment. The book offers insightful advice on redefining success, staying engaged, and finding joy beyond a traditional career. Parsons’ writing is both practical and encouraging, providing strategies to navigate this major life change. While some sections may feel more relevant to professionals with structured careers, the overall message is valuable for anyone seeking a meaningful post-work life. A great read for those who want to make retirement an exciting new chapter rather than just an endpoint!
April 19, 2025
I love this book Encore! If you are someone who has spent your whole life working hard and doesn’t know what comes next, this book is for you. Retirement isn’t about sitting around and doing nothing, it’s about finding new ways to stay excited and fulfilled. The author gives clear, practical advice on how to figure out what really matters to you and how to build a retirement that feels rewarding. The exercises are easy to follow and will help you think. After reading this book, I felt way more confident about the next chapter of my life. If you want retirement to be a fresh start and not an ending, then this book is definitely for you.
April 21, 2025
Retirement isn’t the end it’s a fresh new chapter, and Encore: A High Achiever’s Guide to Retirement captures that idea perfectly. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons speaks to those who want more from retirement than just slowing down.
She helps reframe retirement as a time for purpose, growth, and even adventure. What I liked most is hw practical her advice is clear steps, real stories, and no fluff.
Parsons understands the mindset of high achievers who ask, “What’s next?” after years of success. This book offers real guidance for making the most of that next phase.
Perfect for anyone who sees retirement as a beginning, not an end.
She helps reframe retirement as a time for purpose, growth, and even adventure. What I liked most is hw practical her advice is clear steps, real stories, and no fluff.
Parsons understands the mindset of high achievers who ask, “What’s next?” after years of success. This book offers real guidance for making the most of that next phase.
Perfect for anyone who sees retirement as a beginning, not an end.
May 7, 2025
Words of wisdom for the second innings!
Encore is a thoughtful and inspiring read for anyone standing at the edge of retirement, especially those used to fast-paced, achievement-driven careers. What I liked most about the book is how it takes something that often feels uncertain i.e. retirement and turns it into a phase full of possibility. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons shares her own journey with honesty and care, making it easy to connect with her story. The book doesn’t just talk about what to expect in retirement; it gives you real tools and exercises to help you shape what you want this new chapter to look like.
Encore is a thoughtful and inspiring read for anyone standing at the edge of retirement, especially those used to fast-paced, achievement-driven careers. What I liked most about the book is how it takes something that often feels uncertain i.e. retirement and turns it into a phase full of possibility. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons shares her own journey with honesty and care, making it easy to connect with her story. The book doesn’t just talk about what to expect in retirement; it gives you real tools and exercises to help you shape what you want this new chapter to look like.
February 25, 2025
Designed for seasoned professionals nearing the end of their careers, this book serves as a psychological and financial guide to thriving after retirement. Using an assortment of stories from people who she’s guided through the retirement process in real life, author Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons provides comfort and inspiration to readers at a time when they may need it most.
Encore is one of the most practical yet compassionate guidebooks I have read in a while. I would highly recommend this book for those going through the retirement phase.
Encore is one of the most practical yet compassionate guidebooks I have read in a while. I would highly recommend this book for those going through the retirement phase.
April 12, 2025
Encore: A High Achiever's Guide to Thriving in Retirement offers a very unique perspective on retirement.
The book makes us think of retirement not just as a period of relaxation, but it encourages us to consider it as an opportunity to apply our skills, passion, and enthusiasm in fresh and meaningful ways. We can explore new hobbies, peruse new interests and create a happy fulfilling life even after wrapping up our career. It’s like seeing retirement with an intention of engaging in activities which were previously on hold.
The book makes us think of retirement not just as a period of relaxation, but it encourages us to consider it as an opportunity to apply our skills, passion, and enthusiasm in fresh and meaningful ways. We can explore new hobbies, peruse new interests and create a happy fulfilling life even after wrapping up our career. It’s like seeing retirement with an intention of engaging in activities which were previously on hold.
April 18, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what comes after a career filled with purpose, Encore is your answer. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons gets it—retirement doesn’t mean stopping, it means shifting gears. I loved how she addressed the emotional side of this transition just as much as the practical. The book made me feel seen and energized about the possibilities ahead. It’s not a “how-to-retire” book—it’s a “how-to-thrive” guide. Highly recommend it to anyone who’s ever felt unsure about what their “next” looks like.
April 12, 2025
This book is a helpful guide for people who have worked hard all their lives and are now ready to wind down. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons shares her own story of moving from a high level busy career to a more of a restful & balanced life. She embraces retirement and explains that retirement doesn’t mean stopping everything. It is a fresh chance to find new purpose and joy. The book helps with few simple steps and exercises to work for you plan this new chapter of life.
April 19, 2025
I was not sure what to expect from this book, but it was really helpful. The author talks about retirement in a way that makes sense, like it’s just another phase of life, not something to be scared of. I liked the tips on staying active and connected to people, which is more like friendly advice. If you’re nervous about retirement or just want some ideas on how to make the most of it, this is a great book to start with.
April 19, 2025
Encore: A High Achiever's Guide to Thriving in Retirement offers the counterview of retirement. It proposes that one takes retirement as an opportunity to refocus skills, passion, and zeal in new and meaningful directions to pursue new interests, learn new skills, and live a happy and fulfilling life after leaving their careers. One could say that retirement is joining the list of things to catch up on.
April 19, 2025
For those who have put in a lot of labor throughout their lives and are now prepared to retire, this book is a useful resource. Elizabeth Zelinka Parsons talks about how she transitioned from a demanding, high-level job to a more balanced, peaceful life. She argues that retirement does not entail giving up on life and loves it. It's a new opportunity to discover happiness and meaning. The book offers a few easy activities and techniques to help you plan this new phase of your life.
April 13, 2025
This book resonated with me. Author Elizabeth understands that for high achievers, our work becomes a big part of who we are. So, when that work is gone, it feels like a real loss. That's where this book comes as a source of encouragement. Author helps us to actively plan out our retirement like what to do next, how you can still have an exciting life after retirement.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2025
The upbeat and optimistic tone of this book is what I truly like about it. It gave the prospect of retiring a sense of excitement.
It admits that leaving your employment might be difficult, but it also offers helpful advice on how to discover a new purpose and develop a new identity outside of your work.
It admits that leaving your employment might be difficult, but it also offers helpful advice on how to discover a new purpose and develop a new identity outside of your work.
April 20, 2025
What stood out to me from this book is it's focus on positively viewing retirement as a great opportunity.
It really motivates you to take control of your retirement and actively shape it into something meaningful and enjoyable.
Author Elizabeth encourages you to see the possibilities and embrace this new phase of life will enthusiasm.
It really motivates you to take control of your retirement and actively shape it into something meaningful and enjoyable.
Author Elizabeth encourages you to see the possibilities and embrace this new phase of life will enthusiasm.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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