Sixty-five was set as the age for retirement 50+ years ago because most people did not live much beyond that age.
All these years later, we still hold the idea of having “time off” when we complete our career or job. However, many Westerners can expect another two or three decades of mostly good health. And who wants a 20- or 30-year vacation?
We need to consider the financial impact of a longer retirement, too. I know I cannot afford it – could you? Besides, it would get SO boring after about year two or three.
The opportunities out there are boundless! There are ways to create income that did not exist when we first began our working lives.
Thinking about an “encore career”? What is your niche? What have you always wanted to do, but didn’t have the time to do it? What have you promised yourself you would do – when you had the time?
NOW is the time.
What difference do you want to see in the world? How can you make it happen? Do you sometimes despair for those coming behind you? What about becoming a mentor to someone younger?
A friend recently shared that she had taken a one-year course to become a life coach. Way to go, Melanie! I often read about people who get involved with youth that need help finding their way. Could that be for you?
Time to rejuvenate yourself. Take that course you have been thinking about. Attend lectures on subjects you would like to delve deeper into. Do you play a musical instrument? Maybe it’s time to step out of your comfort zone and look for a group to play with. Do you like to sing? In Victoria, there are at least half a dozen choirs always looking for singers.
I belong to a couple of groups whose members are stepping out of their comfort zones: some are baby steppers; others are giant leapers. Which are you? It doesn’t matter. What does matter is that you have something to share with the world, and now is the time to share it. For your sake and for the sake of those waiting to meet you and your talent, rethink retirement.
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Pat Nichol is a speaker and published author. Connect with her at mpatnichol@gmail.com.
Good advice Pat. It’s much better now that people can choose when they want to retire. I needed to work after mandatory retirement and was able to do part time Retail jobs til I felt I could retire. Can’t afford to travel now tho. Glad I did it while I worked! Everybody’s Senior years are different. Do what works for you!