Start Early: How to Prepare Your Files (and Your Heart) for Retirement

I recall a colleague who stayed until midnight on her last day to clean up electronic files. She misjudged the time needed. Inspired by her experience, I started organizing my files six weeks before retirement, setting weekly goals and creating shared folders with summaries of their content. It was helpful for me to think of it as a gift to colleagues as opposed to a task.

My retirement coaching clients were also surprised by how much they stored. One noted that I did not understate the importance of starting early and allowing ample time.

You won't spend six weeks solely on electronic files. To stay focused, mix file cleanup with personal visits to colleagues. Consider leaving a keepsake of your work together, take minimal items with you, and aim to leave your office with as few physical items as possible to make room in your life and home for new passions.