Earlier this month, I celebrated the fifth anniversary of retirement from the US Forest Service. Everyone comments that we retirees wear such an unflinching smile, look so relaxed, seem so healthy. All of the above are true for me, but the process of getting there has not been simple. Retirement was a milestone that marked endings and signaled beginnings for which I was only vaguely prepared. Five years offers a helpful perspective from which to reflect on the dream and the reality of that giant step into the unknown. As I look back, I find a recurring theme: Surprise!
I am surprised that we have found it so easy to live well on less income. We have not drawn on savings to make ends meet, even while traveling often to help family and providing a degree of support for our son during graduate school. The ends are meeting, we are doing the things we enjoy, and we don't feel deprived.
I am surprised by the effort needed to start a business. I had planned to develop a life coaching practice after I retired. I wanted to help people grow, and was pretty sure we would need the extra income. So, after training and certification the first year, I moved on to marketing. I took classes and read books; hired a consulting team; joined business organizations; developed a website and Facebook page; placed ads, and wrote a blog. I built it, but it was hard for them to come because I barely opened the door. Without a financial motive, my urge to fill the calendar with appointments was lukewarm. Rather than following up to encourage potential clients, l often dropped or dodged the ball. I deeply appreciate those who found me even though I was, to some, degree, hiding from them. (You know who you are!)
I am, finally, most surprised by the joy of volunteering. Before I retired, I came home exhausted and took refuge in family life during the off-hours. However, when self-employment started slowly I found other ways to get involved outside the home. I started a Back of the Pack (BOP) group in our running club to encourage slower runners and walkers. Response has been enthusiastic and the BOP has grown.
Shortly thereafter, the club decided to offer Jeff Galloway's run-walk-run marathon training program. They needed a program director, and I raised my hand. Three seasons and over 300 trainees later, the marathon coach role fills my life with immeasurable rewards six months out of the year.
Five years into retirement, a small life coaching business fits well into the larger picture of work I do for free. In both roles I can channel my passion for supporting others who want to transform their lives. Running club work also fulfills my desire for friendship and belonging. With the discovery that we don't need more money, I have the luxury of donating my time and talent to this rewarding cause.
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How do you envision retirement? What do you look forward to most after handing in the office key? How might you adapt if the first try doesn't turn out the way you expect it to?
