As you approach the end of your career you may be struggling with the decision about whether you retire or not. For some people it’s an easy decision; they are either ready to stop asap or they love what they do and want to continue forever.
But for many others it is less straightforward; they believe they still have some value to add to the marketplace and worry that stopping will leave them without a source of fulfilment. At the same time, the demands of work are increasing making the allure of retirement appealing.
If this describes your situation here are 10 strategies to prepare yourself for the day you are no longer working:
1. Change the role (this could be taking on new business development roles or acting as an introducer).
2. Only take on certain projects a year which allow you to utilise your skills but give you time for other interests.
3. Work one day less a year over 5 years to get used to the idea of not working.
4. Take sabbaticals every few years.
5. Take your laptop on extended breaks so you can juggle work and pleasure.
6. Become a trainer for graduates/new hires or mentor for the next generation.
7. Have a career change to something less demanding but keeps you mentally active and fulfilled.
8. Work on the board of a charity so that you give back.
9. Become a Non-Executive Director for a growing firm that needs your skills and expertise.
10. Just Do It (you might wonder why you didn’t do it sooner)
The nature of retirement is changing and, as longevity increases, the need to find a purpose in life whether that is within or outside of a working environment is important if we are to retire successfully; 30 years is a long time to be bored and unfulfilled. An essential first step is to understand who you are and what is important to you.
