Joe Schmidt says he "certainly" won't be involved in a coaching role for a year after departing Irish rugby, and "quite likely" for longer in order to spend more time with his family.
The 53-year-old is embarking on his sixth and final year in charge of Ireland after announcing his departure from the Irish hot-seat late last year.
The Kiwi will be replaced by Andy Farrell following this year's Rugby World Cup, which concludes in November.
Schmidt has overseen the most decorated period in Irish rugby, winning three Six Nations and beating world champions New Zealand twice, but revealed he wanted to spend more time with his family in announcing his decision.
Speaking at the launch of the Six Nations in London today, Schmidt clarified his retirement plans to RTÉ Sport.
"I haven't made too many plans, but the short-term plan is not to be involved in coaching," he said. "Certainly not for 12 months and, I'd say, quite likely, longer than that.
"We have a couple of projects that are family related and we want to work our way through. I don't spend a lot of time at home already, so I think it's probably high time I did."
With Ireland set to defend their title next weekend at home to England, the coach says his focus has not changed in any way due to his impending departure.
"One of the things I decided, in probably a conversation with myself, was whatever does happen after that, I want to make sure that these next 10 months are as good as can be so that I can help the players and put as much effort into that."
Schmidt's name has been linked with the Lions for the South Africa tour of 2021, and he hasn't entirely ruled out the possibility of coaching against his fellow countrymen.
"I wouldn't be available if asked at the moment. I said to my wife, 'get these 12 months done' . She said, 'I think you'll last 12 days potentially without needing to do something'
"I wouldn't say that I'm looking to do any coaching. It's not something that is at the forefront of my mind."
The detail-oriented coach spoke fondly of his admiration for the competition he has won three times, including last year's Grand slam but, on the flip side, he is also looking forward to a relaxed environment post-rugby.
"I've had an incredibly planned life for so many years. You get the daily itinerary. One of the girls in the office gives me my schedule for the week, where I'm going, where I'm visiting or the school or club I am at.
"I'm kind of looking forward to having 12 months where I can vest that energy in one direction, and also not have a daily itinerary or a weekly plan."
