Just last week I saw another book about ‘reinventing retirement’ reviewed in the Wall Street Journal. Probably, it’s the fourth or fifth book I’ve seen on this topic. Are you ready for a new challenge? Opening a bookstore? Starting a B&B? Choosing to prepare to compete in Pelotonia or run a marathon?
I’m going to be your cheering section, and help you as best I can. For me, however, those are not appealing options. And, I’m guessing others share my perspective.
Am I going to sit in a rocking chair and read? Well, maybe for an hour or so. I am, actually, looking forward to having the time to follow my reading instincts wherever they take me…rather than burying my nose in professional journals.
And that’s the point that gives me pause about many of the reinvention suggestions. They offer no alternative to the pressure-filled, manic pace that many professionals have lived for the past 30 or 40 years.
It’s OK to relax.
Since 1972, when I started graduate school, I have been a student, professor, consultant and administrator. That means I have been in class, reading professional journals and books, analyzing data, writing papers, preparing to teach, teaching, working with clients, preparing workshops or reviewing faculty work, developing budgets, negotiating with funding agencies, interviewing research subjects, writing grant proposals, writing books, and spending interminable time in faculty meetings, review meetings, project meetings and otherwise filling my days with useful and important duties.
I retired two years ago and am ready to function on a schedule of my own choice.
Yes, I wrote a book, and I am still writing articles with colleagues. In fact, I just initiated a new research project. BUT, but, but … Instead of having to make sure I get to the barn at 7 a.m. to ride my horse so that I can be back at my office for a 10 a.m. meeting, freshly showered and looking professional, I can go to the barn at 8:30, ride and take as long as I want to wash my horse, and chat with friends. “Scrambling” to keep up with someone else’s schedule no longer defines my days.
It’s OK to relax.
And, relaxing means that I can focus on choosing my involvement in meaningful activities. I can write and pursue research. I can help my friend who just lost her husband. I can volunteer to work with the advisory boards of a local college program. I can tutor, work with veterans and the local humane society. I can take a walk, or sit in a chair and read a mystery. I have time to think about alternative life styles and goals. Most importantly, I can do this at a less intensive pace.
I have time to relax. After 42 years as a busy, productive, working professional, there is no need to feel guilty about taking that time.