Challenge to Baby Boomers - How to ‘Un-Retire’?
Un-retiring can be explained as “redefining retirement by starting a new second career, or working as consultants rather than stopping work entirely.”
I have always been a high energy, high productivity kind of person and a giver to others.
When you combine those elements with insatiable intellectual curiosity that won’t quit… I knew I had to re-define as I moved into retirement.
It is only recently after nearly a year residing in Charlotte, NC, an environment ripe for thrivers, movers and shakers, a cultural mecca with first class educational and healthcare innovations, I was confident I could continue to work on my terms. It is still very much a ‘work in progress for me, after nearly a year. However, at least I know I’m on the right path.
As a new retiree, there are many transitions you will experience. It can feel liberating and overwhelming at the same time. How to fill your time?
Do you really want to do absolutely nothing? Alternately, do you long to make contributions in a different way?
KEY STEPS TO ‘UN-RETIRE’
Obviously, make a plan. This may involve a detailed master plan…or a manageable outline with major steps and minor steps to fill in along the way; ( long term and short term goals.) ‘Look at it as ‘a recipe for success!
Assess what you liked about your pre-retirement routine and what you didn’t like;
***Retirement should be a time of enjoyment in that you should try to indulge in your passions as much as possible;
Decide what elements are needs versus wants;
Consult your financial advisor to discuss changes and budget parameters;
Pay attention to your health and maintain it. Reach out for assistance for which you may qualify.
Make the healthy choice most of the time. Make those needed doctor appointments and do everything you can to keep chronic issues or new health problems under control! Take the time to find the appropriate health professionals for you and insurance plans that will cover as many services as possible!
Decide if your Un-Retirement involves a geographic relocation or a revamping of your current environment;
If you are staying in your current environment, to some extent, an uncluttered living space leads to an uncluttered mind! If you can’t locate items, you can’t get anything accomplished. I love to weed out, even though I’m already a minimalist in practice.
If you loved your former careers, re-invent what you do best and become a consultant. (I de-emphasized my former ‘Ladyjustice, crime all the time’ role online a couple of years ago, and now focus on advocacy, writing and consulting! Take a look! - I’m available to help!
Learn about community resources you never had time to before retirement.
This may include sharing a passion or hobby with others within a volunteer situation.
If you have the time, and financial resources, travel within your means… as it rejuvenates your view of the world and appreciation for life and different cultures!
Enjoy your friends! If you are single, as I am, with a few friends scattered in various states, it will be more of a challenge. It will take time to find your niche.
Try to divide your time between those things you have to do and those things you enjoy with equal balance, as both are important!
Finally, ask for help when needed.
You have earned your retirement.
Most people respect that and will help in ways they can.
BUT… Don’t leave until you read more offerings!
1)https://donnagore.com/blog/keeping-seniors-safe-the-gutherie-family-a-double-edged-sword;
2)https://donnagore.com/blog/the-art-of-home-organization-for-seniors
Thanks for reading, commenting and sharing!
Donna