ASK REAL GUYS

Help! My Husband Retired

Dear ASK REAL GUYS: Why do men identify so strongly with careers and go belly-up the minute they retire, forcing women to put them together again?

Steven: Because they do. Men traditionally place their identity, ego and self-worth with their jobs. I even read some research once that said that, on average, men die soon after they retire. Be careful and encourage your man to stay active, and most importantly, make sure he feels that his life is still as meaningful and purposeful as it was when he was working. Create some goals that inspire both of you to continue to live happily for the rest of your lives.