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ShareIf you think you know what its like to be 65, how about answering these questions. What’s it feel like to be retired? Do you remember how old you were when you realized you were 65? How far into the future do you make plans? Have people gotten up so you can have a seat? When was the first time someone called you an old-timer (fogey, coot, geezer or as a senior) ? If you haven’t experienced any of these just wait. It’ll happen.
When they stop asking for your opinion at work, the phone stops ringing or the boss starts asking what you’re looking forward to most in retirement. It’s time to consider getting out, moving on and finding your new niche in life – especially if you have a retirement plan in place that will allows you to do this with some degree of comfort. After all, the worst feeling one can have is to be edged out through innuendo, the cold shoulder or downgrading. You didn’t work all your adult years to end up with the feeling of being less than.
On the other hand, if you’re already out of the workforce, you may be having a different kind of identity crisis. Many of us were so involved in our jobs that it became a struggle to accept this new found freedom. Those who, before retirement, were asked, “how are you doing,” and told the questioner about work fall into this category. Walking away from all the responsibilities of life or diving into as many activities as possible, including the seeking of a new job, are two favorite extremes of the newly retired. But these problems will balance out over time. They really will.
Whether you are from either end of the spectrum or someplace in-between, there is a clear need for the experience, knowledge and maturity that New Seniors offer. It can be in pursuing a hobby you never had time for, taking what you learned in business and apply it to activities that help individuals (it could be others 65+ but less fortunate than you) or it may be right to reinvent oneself and going back into the workforce. The latter option may be least satisfying of all. Take time to evaluate the options. It may take time to discover what fits your temperament, interests and schedule. Experiment, you have plenty of time. Look at it like an adventure; start off and see where the path takes you.
Of course, if you have been a New Senior for several years, chances are you’ve tried all, or most all, of the activities mentioned above. Finding your groove is very satisfying. But if you’re still seeking something new, go for it. And while you’re doing that, consider how much you experience you’ve gained getting to this point in life. Often knowing what you don’t want to do is as important as having a bunch of paths to pursue.
If you’re new at being a New Senior, log onto http://www.NewSeniors.com and see what your peers are doing. Tell us about what your thoughts are for the future and we’ll share it with others, anonymously if you wish. Read about the activities others are engaged in. Connect with those who are doing what you want to do, and find out how they got started in making a difference with family, friends and their community. You’ll see how vital and helpful we all can be. And, welcome to the neighborhood.
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