Discussion about this post

User's avatar
Darrell's avatar

Interesting column and a position I’m sure is shared by many. I, too, once identified myself with my occupation.

When I decided to retire I realized I am me, and not defined by the job I do. It was so refreshing! My purpose is to enjoy life. My wife and I hike, bike, cook, read, and live on our own clock. Each day begins with coffee and our two newspapers (+understandably and a few other newsletters) then moves into our day. Whatever we had planned. It is so nice!

Everyone is different and to each their own. The main point is to be happy.

Expand full comment
Glenn B.'s avatar

Well, I’ll definitely be in the minority among the fine readers here, with this comment: I don’t think I will ever retire.

I’m 57, going on 30. The only thing that makes me ever feel old is seeing what I look like in pictures now. YIKES! Oh, and the first 15 seconds of my day when I attempt to go from horizontal to vertical. Lol

Unlike most of the folks who read this wonderful weekday publication, I haven’t amassed enough money to retire on. I’m about to, as I finally…FINALLY made the right choice and struck out on my own, and it’s paying off.

Be that as it may, I don’t see myself ever quitting doing what I’m doing. For many years, I’ve joked that I’ll retire when I’m dead. That always meant I thought I’d need to work until then, because I’d have to. Now, on the precipice of opportunity, I believe it takes on a new meaning for me.

Work doesn’t define me, but it excites me. I can’t wait to get to my days “work” activities…to the tasks of making my clients’ lives and successes better. I go to sleep every night thinking of ways to do just that. I think of other things as I go to sleep as well…family, friends, gratitude…but I just can’t turn off the work stuff, either. Because it’s always part of my joy.

Joy and excitement are now why I won’t fully retire. Sure, I’m much closer to other joys…grandkids being the main one. I’m guessing I’m two years away from them, and they are bound to change my stance quite a bit. Being a dad brought me fulfillment, joy and excitement unlike anything else. Even still, the thrill of getting up each day and diving into the work that will change the lives of my clients is what propels me forward. It helps me see each new day not as “closer to death”, but as “What can I do TODAY?” It’s a great feeling, and truly keeps me young.

Having read Bill’s interview of Steve above, I now know I will be the guy who doesn’t retire, just “tapers back”. 20 hours a week sounds awfully good! I will effectively have my cake and eat it too, with the added luxury of not knowing which portion of my life is the cake. Awww, heck…it will all be cake. :-)

Expand full comment
20 more comments...

No posts