Retirement sometimes doesn't come on your terms. Whether it's due to company restructuring, health issues, or market downturns, it can arrive earlier and more abruptly than they expected. The sudden shock of being forced into retirement can make you feel like the rug has been pulled out from under you.
 

The situation may feel overwhelming, but there are proactive steps you can take to regain control and shape your next chapter.
 

Acknowledge the Shock and Take Action
 

It's normal to feel blindsided, but staying stuck in that emotion can delay important decisions. The first step is to accept the situation and start looking at your options. It’s not just about money; it’s also about purpose, identity, and how you want to spend your time.
 

As Dave Popowich said, "We see this all the time. People go through the emotions first, which is totally natural, but then it’s about pivoting to action and asking, what’s next?"
 

Assess Your Financial Position Immediately
 

Before making any big moves, review your current savings, pension plans, severance, and other assets. Understand your cash flow needs and look at any potential gaps between what you have and what you need.
 

This is the time to consult a financial advisor, like someone at PKAG, who can stress-test your portfolio and help map out scenarios, including worst-case options.
 

Understand What You Control and What You Can't
 

You might not control the timing of your exit from the workforce, but you do control when to take government benefits, how to adjust your spending or investment strategies, and whether to pivot into part-time work, consulting, or a new business.
 

Faisal Karmali explained, "You may not have chosen this path, but you can still control the direction you take from here. It’s about understanding the levers you can still pull and making informed decisions."
 

As Dave likes to say, it’s crucial to build a plan based on facts, not fear.
 

Plan Sooner, Not Later
 

Many people delay serious retirement planning until they're forced to, or really close to retirement. The reality is that the earlier you start, the more flexibility you can create. You can make better tax-efficient decisions, choose to retire on your terms, or at least have options if you're pushed out. You’ll also have more time to emotionally adjust to this transition.
 

If you're still working and in your 50s or early 60s, now is the time to get a realistic retirement plan in place.
 

Look Beyond Money and Ask What’s Next
 

A big part of retirement planning is non-financial. When work suddenly stops, it can feel like your purpose disappears too. Ask yourself what activities give you energy? What role do you want to play in your community or family, and do you want to work part-time for enjoyment rather than necessity?
 

Having a plan for your time is just as important as having a plan for your finances.
 

Gain Back Your Control
 

Forced retirement can feel like a loss of control, but with the right plan, it can also be the start of something new. The key is to take stock, get advice, and start planning as soon as possible, ideally before the decision is made for you.