Coping with the death of a spouse is difficult.
Not only are you dealing with putting the financial pieces together, but you’re also juggling your emotions and the emotions of family and friends.
It’s easy to become distracted by funeral arrangements and by responding to inquiries from family and friends.
While you are grateful for everyone’s concern, it can be overwhelming.
As things begin to calm down, you may find yourself with the space you were craving for in the beginning.
Sometimes that space can be deafeningly quiet.
To fill the void or even to change your routine, consider finding a job.
Even if you don’t need the money, having something to do every day can be a blessing for moving forward.
Look for something simple.
Something that distracts you from the loneliness you’re feeling and lets you interact with new people.
Working in retail, such as a small gift shop or boutique, may offer you a sense of distraction without the high pressure.
Other ideas include serving as a receptionist in a small office or stocking inventory for a store.
The key is to find something that gives you an outlet and is not high-pressure.
If you’re currently receiving Social Security benefits and have reached your full retirement age, there is no limit on how much you can earn.
However, if you are under your full retirement age, the 2026 earnings limit is $24,480. For every $2 earned above the limit, $1 is deducted from your Social Security benefit amount.
With survivor benefits, the rules are complex. Contact your local Social Security office to find out your options.
If it’s too cumbersome to find work while receiving your full Social Security benefits, then consider volunteering.
Identify a non-profit organization you’re passionate about and pursue opportunities with them.
You may enjoy volunteering at the humane society, hospital, or even your religious organization.
If you want a more meaningful job, consider returning to school for another degree or completing a certificate program.
Use the time you now have available to venture into another career path.
When your partner in life dies, it’s hard to imagine moving forward.
To help you cope, find a job that gives you a new purpose in life.
Whether that work is paying or a volunteer opportunity, it’ll give you a distraction to combat loneliness.
For additional guidance, check out our “Moving Beyond Grief” service by clicking here.
(Update to original post from October 10, 2022)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”