The Retirement Line

Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.  -Alan Lakein

Recently, I watched a 62 year-old break down in tears during a TV interview. I listened as he painfully described what it is like to lose a job just before retirement. He worked for three employers throughout his more than forty-year career. He lost his first two jobs when one company closed down and the other relocated.  Now he learned he was done, again.

As with most people, his goal had been to retire with dignity – on his terms and when he was ready.  He held the belief that retiring is something you schedule on your calendar.  Now he was learning the hard way that not everyone gets the fond send-off with a gold watch and luncheon. Not only has he not crossed his own retirement finish line, he does not have a back up plan to get there.

I have heard many take that first step and admit concern about reaching their retirement goal – the age when they are ready, both financially and emotionally.  Many simply hope for the best.  Other’s grin and bear it.

Most people know it is wise to regularly assess the path to retirement. Things change, people change, the economy changes – and the finish line changes. How many ways do you have in place, to cross the finish line, in the event that you are asked to leave early?

Let no one be deluded that a knowledge of the path can substitute for putting one foot in front of the other.  -Mary Caroline Richards

Truer still, most know it is wise to go beyond assessing the path to actually creating a backup plan. The challenge becomes taking the time to actually walk that plan out, day by day. It is in these actions that the peace of mind develops along the path.  I recently discovered a coworker is doing just that.

After the TV interview, I had a chat with Karen, who is in her fifties. Some of her peers have been recently restructured – just before retirement. Most are still looking for a job because they cannot afford to retire.   I was excited to hear the peace and assurance in her voice as she shared her strategy for retirement!

While hoping to retirement from her current job, Karen has a plan to make sure she crosses her line, no mater what!  She is taking proactive steps to secure her own future. Taking current reality into account, and despite the two degrees she already has, she is going back to school. 

Karen found two part time jobs where she can put her education to good use a couple evenings a week. Both jobs are in areas she loves and quite different from her day job. She explained that her strategy is simple:  be flexible, continuously learn, and have a back up plan.  In her case, she has several! 

Even if Karen is laid off from her day job, and she doesn’t leave on her terms, she will continue to live on her terms. She has a plan to get her to the retirement finish line and she has the peace of mind that goes with it.

If you are prepared, then you’re able to feel confident. -Robert J Ringer

Thanks for taking the time to read this inspiration today.  I appreciate your comments and look forward to responding in future inspirations and in the upcoming Get a Job Tools.

You will find that job!