How you define retirement today is a critical element for your planning and journey toward it. The decision to defer the necessary planning for your future security today may be the neglectfully developed architecture of your own demise.  It has often been said, "you are as old as you think you are," or that "your attitude is the key element for a successful life journey."  These are more critical today then ever as people are living long and facing more stress.  The choices you make influenced by your definition of your retirement, will set in motion the terms you that will develop your retirement as you journey toward it.  The terms for your retirement and the type of retirement whether it be a full retirement or a partial as many desire today could be a critical factor in living longer and enjoying it more.