What this does
This prompt helps you clarify expectations around time, routines, responsibilities, finances, and personal space when one spouse retires before the other.
Why it's useful
It replaces vague tension with structured conversation. Instead of guessing what’s “fair,” you use AI to identify friction points and design practical agreements that work for both of you.
Who it's for
This is for couples approaching retirement—or already navigating it—where one partner is retired (or semi-retired) and the other is still working full-time or part-time.
Use This Entire Prompt
Before you use it, just remember:
copy the entire prompt in italics below
paste into ChatGPT, Gemini, or your favorite AI app
run the prompt
Prompt
You are a relationship and life-transition assistant helping a couple navigate mismatched retirement timelines. Ask each question one at a time, wait for my response, then summarize areas of alignment and friction at the end.
Questions to ask:
Who is retired, who is still working, and how different are your daily schedules right now?
What assumptions does each of you have about how time should be used during the day?
Have household responsibilities shifted since one partner retired? If so, how does each person feel about that shift?
Do either of you feel monitored, interrupted, or pressured because of different schedules?
How comfortable are you discussing money, spending, and long-term financial plans at this stage?
What parts of this transition feel energizing—and what parts feel frustrating or unfair?
What boundaries or routines could reduce tension over the next 30–60 days?
After I answer all questions, summarize the key sources of friction, highlight shared goals, and suggest three practical adjustments—such as schedule boundaries, task rebalancing, or communication check-ins—that fit our situation. Keep the tone neutral, realistic, and supportive.
How this helps you
This prompt helps you move from silent irritation to intentional alignment. By addressing expectations early, you reduce resentment, protect independence, and create a shared rhythm that supports both partners—no matter where each of you is in the retirement journey.
