“Don’t simply retire from something; have something to retire to.”
Harry Emerson Fosdick
For many years, society has dictated that your career will end when you turn 65. For some, this transition brings a great sense of freedom – a time to “hang it up” and indulge in all the hobbies and pursuits that the 9-5 work schedule wouldn’t allow. For others, life after retirement may be dull and sedentary – something to avoid. In either scenario, if you don’t stay engaged and active, you may become bored and struggle with feeling unfulfilled. Let’s focus on the best of retirement so you won’t be left asking “What do I do now?”
Second Act
In decades past, retiring at age 65 made more sense because of the physical nature of many vocations, like farming. But today’s work is more often intellectually focused, meaning that many men and women are productive long past the standard retirement age. Even better, new terms like Encore or Retirement Career and Second Act are now reflecting the path that many retirees are taking. While they might have retired from a particular career, they have not retired from living with purpose. An encore career allows you to do something new or different, where wages are no longer the primary concern. You can continue to share your talents and skills in new ways. This kind of “rewirement” spurs continual growth and development and provides that sense of belonging and purpose that we all seek. Encore careers exercise your mind, body and soul.
Mind & Body
Studies show that learning continues to strengthen your brain and mental capacity especially at retirement age. Tackling new pursuits, like learning a new language or practicing a musical instrument as an older adult can really keep the mind sharp. Enrolling a lifelong learning program like The Pathways Institute provides many avenues for intellectual stimulation and social growth as you meet fellow learners and teachers.
We all know that physical fitness is important at any age. For older adults, the benefits of wellness are especially significant. Staying physically active can stave off depression, prevent injury, and in some cases, good physical health is more potent than medication. Exercise makes you feel better, look better, and feel energized!
Giving Back
Many retirees enrich their lives and the lives of others through volunteerism. Time and time again you hear volunteers say, “I thought I was I doing something helpful for someone else, but I receive the greatest reward helping others.” Multiple studies reveal that retirement-age individuals who volunteer often received more emotional benefit than the people they are helping.
The bottom line is this: creativity and engagement doesn’t have an age limit. The desire to have purpose and passion doesn’t fade away when you retire. Whether it’s an encore career, volunteering, taking up a new hobby or the desire to seek new challenges later in life; the benefits of staying active and engaged are limitless.
We’re curious. Do you have a story about an Encore Career, Second Act or any other inspirational stories that you’d like to share? We would love to hear from you.
Also for other great resources to explore and connect, check out these links:
Coming of Age, Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning, Messiah Lifeways Wellness and Messiah Lifeways Volunteer Program.
