Life begins at 60!
THE AMBIENCE was sombre. Everyone in my family was grim-faced. But, I, a college-going member of the family, did not understand why everyone was so dull on my dad's birthday. Well, the reason was it was his 57th birthday and the countdown for his retirement had slipped into months.
This was not so long ago, I tell you. Retirement during those days used to signal the end of the productive phase of one's life. Let alone productivity or efficiency, the general attitude of employers and public was that the moment you turned 58 or 60, as the case may be, you just about transmuted into a decrepit, senescent creature incapable of coherent thought. You were for all practical purposes shoved out of the office you had given all your best years to, and pretty much confined to an armchair for the rest of your life. If one were lucky, one could look forward to morning walks and the monthly pension. But, those without adequate retirement benefits often found themselves stranded and struggling to meet ends in the evening of their lives.
Times have changed however, and today, retirement no longer signals the end of paid work, productivity or utility to society. In fact, it is seen as a transition point for a new phase of life that could open the door to a more satisfying lifestyle, combining new career options with travel, education and community service.
Mature People often feel the need to take up work post retirement. Not just for the money, but to learn new things, meet new people and find some meaningful purpose in life. There are a host of rewarding career choices for people in the fifty plus age group, ranging from part-time, flexi-work options to freelancing, community service and entrepreneurship. So, if you are young at heart, and too full of life to relinquish your work boots, get adventurous and consider some of the following suggestions to explore a new career and start afresh.
Mature people, looking to rejoin the workforce after retirement, can do so in a variety of ways. Many employers these days seek seniors for career opportunities as they represent a wealth of experience with little or no need for training. If you have just retired or are nearing retirement, talk to your current employer about post-retirement possibilities such as bridge positions, phased retirement, part-time employment, telecommuting, or freelancing. Or, dig out that old CV; give it a thorough makeover, and head for the best recruiting agency in your locality. Chances are they have something that fits your career profile. A knowledgeable and experienced professional can also transform himself into a consultant, freelancer or career coach for younger professionals.
Another option for older people, who not only want to work but also want variety and new challenges, is to consider temping. Temporary agencies help place you with employers who need your particular skills. A wide range of temporary agencies is available, so find one that meets your criteria.
If you are contemplating a career change, this is possibly the best time to get bold and take the leap. After all, you have nothing to lose. But, do take time to examine your likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses, and consider talking with a career professional to choose something that is best suited to your aptitude and temperament.
If you are really adventurous, you could transform yourself into an entrepreneur and start your own business after retirement. While many have been successful starting their own businesses, it is certainly riskier later in life. Do evaluate the pros and cons and deliberate carefully before sinking your life's savings into any venture.
Then there are those who want to work, but are lucky enough not to need the income. For such people volunteering is a wonderful option. Volunteering often gives seniors a chance to use the skills they spent so much time cultivating. Most importantly, it helps them find a purpose and the satisfaction of being able to give something back to society.
Finally, if you want to really step back in time, learn a new technical skill such as computing skills or earn that college degree you gave the go by in the mad rush to land a job and start earning - go ahead. Contact the colleges in your area and see if they offer specific programmes that are in line with your educational interests. If you do not want a formal programme, consider enrolling in distance learning programmes or e-learning modules to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Retirement can be a time to do all the things you did not have time to when you were working. Plan your life post retirement - strategise to work fewer hours or earn money from home, try a new career or business, learn new skills, further your education or help the community through voluntary work, and last but not least, enjoy life! Truly, life begins at sixty!
BINDU SHRIDHAR
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