55 and Counting gently but pointedly looks deeper and wider at the many parts of life that will be affected by retirement: Identity (who am I now?). Sharing the house and days on end with a now-present spouse. Discovering new purpose. Finding true community. Deciding where to live. Exploring family stories and history to dispel any clouds or mysteries. Preparing for losses. This book is a guide for Pre-Retirement, adjusting and putting things right before the last day of work. 55 and Counting also addresses those who are often overlooked by experts in retirement planning—singles, women, and persons who need to continue working well past the expected start of retirement. True stories and examples fill these pages. Each chapter ends with “Questions for Reflecting” and “Next Steps,” as a way to structure Pre-Retirement planning so it does not become overwhelming.