Transcending boundaries

The spiritual and psychological transformation of expatriate retirees

Abstract

This study investigated the transpersonal effects of self-initiated expatriation among retirees, a phenomenon increasingly significant in today’s globalised world. The research contextualised expatriation within a broader exploration of retirees’ pursuit of a better quality of life, cultural enrichment, and personal growth, situating these motivations within the existing literature on ageing and transpersonal psychology. Employing organic inquiry, a method that captures deeply personal and transformative experiences, and looking into the experiences of four expatriate retirees, the study revealed four key themes: the initial call to expatriation, identity reformation through cultural immersion, the challenges of cultural integration, and the psychological rebirth characterised by gerotranscendence. Findings suggest that expatriation in retirement leads to profound psychological and spiritual transformations, fostering a redefined sense of self and an expanded worldview. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the psychological and spiritual dimensions of retirement and ageing, challenging traditional narratives and offering new perspectives for scholars, policymakers, and individuals considering expatriation. The study fills a critical gap in the literature by providing a nuanced exploration of the personal and transpersonal consequences of expatriation.