I came into a windfall about a year ago. I found that it's easy to fall in a rut. Having so much money made me feel like that what what other people perceive as

I came into a windfall about a year ago. I found that it's easy to fall in a rut. Having so much money made me feel like that what what other people perceive as the biggest thing about me. I miss the praise and respect that a job well done gave me, that I had while working. After retiring, it's easy to think that, besides the money there is nothing worthwhile about me. Then there is the question about what to do when meeting new people and they ask what I do? Tell the truth, and I create this weird social dynamic. Mutter “computer programmer” and I've just stunted any possibility of a real longterm connection by not describing who I truly am. Not sure what can be done about this, except say to prepare for loneliness. The other piece of advice is to get deeply involved in learning something or creating something. I was amazed by how much the feeling of accomplishment gave me happiness and contentment over going to a fine restaurant or buying expensive clothes.