We’re living longer. Anyone who follows the debates about Social Security and Medicare know that this is one of the main issues threatening the solvency of these programs. And no matter what side you fall on politically or morally, you can’t deny that simple fact. Half of the children born today in developed countries will live to be over 100. That doesn’t mean that I plan to work until I’m 80, but I do have plans for a second career, one that I can nurture, one that doesn’t necessarily have to pay the bills, but has to pay off in other ways. It has to feed my spirit, nurture my curiosity, and engage my mind. And I’m not alone.
Many Americans are returning to college in their golden years. Whether it’s to pursue that degree you didn’t quite finish in your younger days, or simply for the pleasure of learning a new discipline, there’s a lot of perks to donning those school colors again. When I was a traditional student, I was too busy with a part time job and full time honey to pursue much of a social calendar. But after years of working, I’ve become a social creature. I can’t wait to kick back, relax, and read a few hundred novels in retirement, but I won’t be spending every evening that way. I crave conversation, and returning to the classroom at least guarantees that it won’t all be about the weather.
Of course, there are other ways to nurture new skills as you near retirement. If you’re online, you can learn just about anything from YouTube or online tutorials. You can search for workshops and classes happening in the community. You can visit the library and read up on your favorite subject. One of the most exciting parts of retirement for me is the freedom to explore my interests. I can’t wait to indulge my love of gardening. I might be a master chef and just haven’t had the time to discover it yet. And while I won’t need to earn a full time income once retired, if I’m able to bring in an extra stream of money, that’s more fun and adventure for the taking. Because I’ll have some guaranteed income to fall back on, the fear of failure isn’t nearly as crippling as it is right now, when I NEED to succeed at my career and keep food on the table. I wonder how many would be inventors, authors, and business owners have been sidetracked by that fear and stuck with their 9 to 5. That’s the great thing about retirement—you finally have the time to find out what if, without the risk.
So in honor of the back to school season, I think it’s time we all committed ourselves to learning something new. Maybe you want to plan for a second career during your retirement, one that focuses on your passions and keeps you inspired. Maybe you’d rather develop a new hobby or talent just for the fun of it. Whatever the case may be, making a plan ahead of time and starting to do a little research is a sure way to get you excited about a rewarding retirement. What’s in store for your second act?