When we stop working we suddenly have a substantial amount of time to fill. Sure, there is likely to be an initial period of relaxation with a focus on having fun and catching up on things you couldn’t get to while you were working. But at some point, you may yearn for the structure, growth, and reward that once came from working. If you want a demanding yet rewarding project that can last for the rest of your life, focus on self-improvement.

Introspection may not be your strong suit. But as the Greek philosopher, Socrates, said more than 2,000 years ago, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Do you truly know who you are and what you want out of the rest of your life? Have you done your best work, or are your greatness and life potential only partially realized?

Merriam-Webster defines reaching or realizing one’s full potential as “to become the best one can be.” But what does that mean? How do you know what your best is? Has a major life challenge forced you to find strength and resources within that you didn’t know where there? Professional athletes know what it takes to excel as do those who have achieved a high level of success in their careers. They have the mindset and inner fire to push themselves past physical and mental limitations.

But how about the rest of us, who have done okay in life, but have a sense that there is so much more that we could do, be, and have? An inner angst lets us know with uncomfortable feelings in our gut that we are not finished with our life’s work and there is more for us to do.

Coming up with a powerful “why” for what we want to accomplish in retirement can be what ignites our passion and pushes us to excel. Your why may be creating a great relationship with your grandchildren and mentoring them throughout life. It may be volunteering at a local elementary school and making a difference in the lives of children you do not know. As you reflect on your core and aspirational values and spend time in self-refection your why may come into focus and lead you into action.