“How long before you plan to retire?” It’s a question GrownUps are often asked, and a question we often ask ourselves. The answer is usually… “how long is a piece of string!” because ‘retirement’ is less about age and more about a wide range of other considerations. Below are just some reasons that may hit the spot.
Work satisfaction
Many people decide not to quit their day job even though their super is about to cut in or they already have sufficient savings. The fact is, they love what they do – they’re good at it and it gives them great satisfaction. For others though, they may not have realised, until they have the option to leave work, that they are actually over it! Either they no longer feel as motivated or engaged as they once did, or, they are becoming increasingly burnt out. There’s a reason why super cuts in at 65, and it may be your body (and mind) is sensing it’s time you took a break.
Health
As we age, it’s natural to lose a little physical condition. We may become less agile or mobile, and although we may still be able to keep up with younger colleagues in a physical working situation, come the end of the day, we often feel more tired than usual, and less refreshed after a night’s sleep. Declining energy levels can be a clue we might enjoy retirement more than we expect. However, any physical concerns should also be checked out with your GP.
Diminishing energy levels affect our brains. Even if you don’t notice it yourself, your colleagues or clients might. You may notice performance reviews are less complimentary than they once were, or frustration at not having words at your fingertips in a meeting situation. Perhaps colleagues feel increasingly irritating or you’re just worn out at the end of the working day. If you notice any of these factors, it may be that retiring, or considering a part-time role, is the way to go.
Technology tantrums
Grappling with new technology is an almost daily chore in today’s world, and we should never make the mistake of thinking it’s easier for younger people. The fact is, getting to grips with new technology is difficult for everyone. However, a younger person is often equipped with greater energy levels and possibly greater stamina than an older person, which might explain why they adapt faster. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by demands to navigate new technology, don’t be hard on yourself. As we age, it’s the job of our body to support our most essential needs, and grappling with the next piece of technology may not be on its list of ‘essentials.’
Missing out
We may really enjoy our job, but as more and more of our friends retire, we can often get a feeling we’re missing out on the sorts of activities they are increasingly enjoying. If you find yourself envying others who are free to enjoy watching the grandchildren play sport or putting on a dance performance, think twice about how much longer you want to continue working. If you wish you could join your retired siblings for a round of golf or a family cruise, perhaps it’s time to think about winding up work (assuming you can afford to).
Not everyone has the luxury of giving up work at 65, but if you increasingly find a full time job is no longer good for you, or your colleagues, perhaps it’s time you thought of alternatives. You might take on work that’s less demanding, more part time, or simply decide to cut back on some discretionary spending so your super becomes sufficient for a modest but enjoyable retirement. Whatever you do, watch out for signs suggesting a shift in lifestyle is good for you!