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This year is off to an extraordinary and challenging start, with global events ranging from acts of terrorism to devastating fires.
Amidst this backdrop, I had the opportunity to watch President Jimmy Carter’s memorial service during a flight. Usually, I would be engrossed in work or podcasts, but hearing the heartfelt stories from his grandchildren about his life left a deep impression on me.
One particularly moving moment was hearing Gerald Ford’s eulogy, read aloud by his son, honoring Carter, his former political rival.
Ford’s words exemplified respect, humility, and a sense of shared humanity that transcends partisan lines.
What struck me most about Carter’s life was not his presidency but what came after—his journey of extraordinary consistency and purpose after leaving the White House at the age of 56.
Destination Unknown
In wealth management, we often focus on helping clients prepare for retirement, oftentimes treating it as a destination. But what if, as Ram Daw says, we are all just walking each other home?
What if we view life as a series of journeys we embark on, letting retirement be the greatest place for us to find and express purpose? I know many advisors attempt to help, especially the younger retirees, think through what comes next after their clients walk away from their 9-5.
Many people have expectations of themselves that involve a total reinvention, but we would be wise to consider the character, values, and purpose we’ve cultivated over the last 40, 50, 60 years, that carry us forward into this new chapter.
Studies have shown that losing a sense of purpose after retirement significantly increases risks of depression, cognitive decline, and mortality.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health found that people with a strong sense of purpose in life had a 19% lower risk of dying during the study period than those without it.
So, how do we maintain purpose after a major life transition?
I’d like to suggest that we take inspiration from Jimmy Carter’s post-presidential life—a masterclass in using purpose to thrive and serve others.
Jimmy Carter’s Remarkable Contributions After the Presidency
After leaving office in 1981, Carter embarked on a journey that redefined public service. His work has impacted millions worldwide:
1. Humanitarian Efforts through Habitat for Humanity
Carter became deeply involved with Habitat for Humanity, helping to build or repair over 4,000 homes in 14 countries through the annual Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. His hands-on commitment exemplified servant leadership and showed the world that even former presidents could roll up their sleeves for a cause.
2. Global Health Achievements
Through The Carter Center, founded in 1982, Carter led groundbreaking initiatives to combat diseases like Guinea worm, river blindness, and malaria. The eradication of Guinea worm disease, in particular, is one of his most remarkable accomplishments, with cases dropping from 3.5 million in 1986 to fewer than a dozen today (source: The Carter Center).
3. Advocacy for Peace and Human Rights
Carter became a global ambassador for peace, monitoring elections in 39 countries and mediating conflicts worldwide.
His 2002 Nobel Peace Prize recognized these efforts, underscoring his role as a beacon of diplomacy and humanitarianism.
4. Literary and Public Speaking Contributions
Carter wrote over 30 books on topics ranging from faith to public policy. His writings offered wisdom and inspiration, encouraging people to lead lives of service and integrity.
5. Commitment to Faith and Community
Carter remained active in his church, teaching Sunday school for decades—even into his 90s. His steadfast faith and humility inspired countless others to live with purpose and grace.
What Does This Matter to Us? A Call to Action for Advisors and Clients
The average financial advisor is 44; many of us reading this may be a few years older.
Carter’s example reminds us that life’s greatest contributions can come after what we traditionally view as our peak.
As advisors, we have a unique opportunity to inspire our clients to see retirement as a fresh start to living lives that are wholly centered around character, values, and purpose—a chance to channel their energy, skills, and passions into something meaningful. Whether through volunteering, mentorship, or pursuing long-held dreams, there’s always room for growth, service, and impact.
When purpose-driven living becomes the norm, even health challenges or other barriers won’t stop you from striving for good. Carter’s own journey with cancer and aging didn’t stop him from working tirelessly to make the world a better place.
Purpose fuels resilience, and resilience sustains vitality.
Let’s take this lesson to heart in our own lives and in the lives of those we serve. Just as Jimmy Carter showed the world that a life of service doesn’t end when you lose a title or a role, we can inspire ourselves and others to make every moment count.
As we move through 2025 and beyond, let’s commit to helping people live lives that matter—not just during their working years but throughout their natural lives.
Together, we can create a world that thrives on purpose, resilience, and service.