Too Young to Retire? - Part 2
Often, just because we CAN retire, doesn’t mean we’re ready for the rocking chair.
Generally speaking, most of us are too young and too active to sit idly by for the next 20-30 years. And according to many surveys, most of us are choosing to continue to work – sometimes out of financial need, but often because we like the human connection.
In my previous article, I touched on the monetary realities that become a factor in the timing of our retirement decision. This is a tangible element, something you measure and project with educated guesses and calculations.
As we move into this third phase of our life, however, the more difficult thing to measure is our emotional well-being. Are we ready for retirement?
Here are three questions to ask yourself as you consider your exit strategy from the typical workforce.
1) What does retirement mean to me?
While it’s great to fantasize about sleeping in every morning, not having an agenda, and just lazing about, statistics show those with no purposeful living tend to live shorter lives. You don’t have to have a day-to-day, minute-by-minute schedule. But take some time and examine areas that will excite you and challenge you. Have you always wanted to speak a foreign language? Or perhaps become an artist? You’re never to young – or too old – to learn new things and to find fulfillment.
Perhaps it’s time to redefine roles. I know of several men who thoroughly enjoy staying at home doing the cooking, cleaning and grocery shopping . . . and they’re terrific at it! Besides, that still provides time for the gym, a round of racquetball or a late afternoon beer with the guys.
By staying active and keeping yourself challenged, you’ll find yourself enjoying your new life – and your new freedoms. It’ll also ensure your conversations with others don’t become a bore as well!
2) What’s my social barometer indicator?
Speaking of other people, the majority of our time spent In our traditional jobs involves direct contact with others. This includes one-on-one conversations, group meetings (oh, boy, lots of meetings!) and telephone conversations.
Those who have transitioned to working at home have begun to adjust to a quieter, solitary environment. But if you’re coming directly from a classroom of 30 noisy students, teachers and parents, to a home where your space is mostly quiet all day long, you may soon find yourself going crazy with all the peacefulness.
Do yourself a favor and invest in a bit of time for introspection. Find out how much “people” time you think you’ll want or need. And of course, how much “alone” time you’re eager to have as well. Do you have a need to be in charge of something? There are numerous civic projects that would love some volunteer help. Are you the type who likes to entertain? Join your community’s stage productions or community chorus events.
In time, everyone eases comfortably into a new routine, a new way of participating in the world. Knowing the truth about yourself will help you make meaningful choices in your new life as a retiree.
3) When do I see myself retiring?
It’s a good idea to start visualizing the Big Day. This will help you “try on” the idea and start getting ideas on how you want to experience the new life. If you can, create a way to ease into the new life. For instance:
- Can you cut back on your current workload? (See my previous article on work alternatives.)
- Get a head start on that hobby you’ve always enjoyed, but never had the time for. See if it provides the enjoyment you are expecting.
- Take an extended vacation. Find out what it’s like to be away from work for more than 1 week.
Retirement can be the most enjoyable, exhilarating time of your life. It’s much easier to adapt to a new way of life one step at a time rather than turning your entire world upside down in a week.
Have a Golden Day!
Coach Darlene
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