During conversations with men who are still working, I’m curious about how they view the decision to shift from a full-time career to something new. I always make it clear that I’m not judging their perspective, just genuinely trying to understand their point of view.
What surprised me in several recent conversations was that the decision to retire (or shift away from a full-time career) was being left to others. Some were waiting to be told they were no longer capable or no longer needed.
I’m not a psychologist, but I can only guess at the extreme reaction to either of those messages. It’s hard to imagine that anyone would happily stroll into their next phase of life with a smile on their face after hearing something like that. In fact, it feels like the worst possible outcome.
If you’re still “at it,” maybe devote some time to ponder this and ask yourself a few big questions:
Do I really want to hand over control of my life to someone else?
If I have “lost a step,” what will life look like afterward?
(What’s left in the proverbial tank?)
What does having control over my life mean to me?
And perhaps the biggest, most challenging question:
How can I create a life post-career that is fulfilling and joyful?
There is a caveat to the word “fulfilling”…the definition must, by its very nature, change from what it was during your work life.
Think about it….and feel free to let me know your reactions and thoughts.
