Former colleagues sometimes reach out to me to ask how I’m doing and if I’m enjoying retirement. In short, I am doing great and retirement is wonderful!
After announcing my decision to retire early, many of my colleagues - knowing I was a workaholic - thought I’d be bored. I can honestly say that I am not bored (if I am bored on occasion, I view it as my fault and quickly find something enjoyable or meaningful to do; boredom doesn’t occur often).
So, what does retirement look like for me? I am busy! On most days I reserve mornings for myself and afternoons doing things with my husband, but I also enable plenty of flexibility for family, events, outings, and appointments. I juggle projects, hobbies, and travel. I strive to try new things, achieve self growth, foster long neglected friendships, enjoy life, and do something meaningful. I attempt to exceed my comfort zone every day, sometimes with small accomplishments and at other times with larger accomplishments. I am physically and spiritually healthier and more fit than I’ve been in many, many years, without the constant and crushing work stress and anxiety. Retirement confirmed my pre-retirement feeling that there must be something more to life than working crazy long hours day in and day out for employers who truly don’t care about me. It has taught me what’s important in life, who and what matters to me, and to whom I matter. As many who know me well would expect, I created a long and ever-growing list of things I want to do, and in some cases, I’m still figuring it out. But, that’s ok. I am overjoyed at having the ability to do so. Retiring early isn’t for everyone, but it was absolutely the right decision for me.
President/CEO at Curative Connections
3 周Congratulations Karen! Thank you for your years of service and always sharing your smile of happiness. You will be missed. Best wishes to you!