After 30 years working for a great company, in a job and with people I really enjoy, I’m about to make the transition to being a retiree. What the heck? (Not “WHAT the heck?” as in no big deal, but “What the HECK?” as in, “Are we really ready for this?!”
There are hundreds, if not thousands, thinking about or going through this major life transition. Are you? How do you feel about it? What do you think?
When I go to the office and walk the halls, seeing so many friendly faces that say, “hi” or “how’s it goin’?”, I realize what I’m going to miss most.
It is a stark reminder that I’ll miss seeing my colleagues – smart, dedicated and knowledgeable – people, from all over the world, on a daily basis. I’ll miss the challenge, the excitement, the feeling of accomplishment, and satisfaction of helping others find success. Yet I’m looking forward to exploring new adventures, new ways to make a difference in people’s lives. We’ll see.
“When the time is right, you’ll know,” said many a fellow colleague, mentor or retiree. But how do you really know for sure? You don’t. So you weigh the time vs. money calculation and make the call.
I mulled it over for a while. Talked to my spouse, of course, and a few confidantes. Even changed my mind a few times, and back again. Money vs. time. What’s a year or two of your life worth when you’re in your late 50s or early 60s? Priceless?
If you’re wondering what’s the best advice I’ve heard, it’s this: “Whatever you decide, don’t look back.” And tonight’s fortune cookie said: “Courage is the mastery of fear, not the absence of fear.” Hmmm.
So with that in mind, I’m taking the plunge now – a few years earlier than most, a few years later than some. I feel blessed to have the choice.
Life in retirement (and other major life transitions) will be a theme for this blog. Feel free to join the conversation.