Some new ways to think about your retirement

Talk about it

For many people, “to work or not to work” used to be an all or nothing decision. Today, not everyone retires from long service in one job with a new watch and a one-way ticket to Florida.

Some of us need to keep working to keep food on the table. Others simply enjoy work and want to continue using their skills as long as possible.

If you’re still working and thinking about retiring, or if you’ve retired from a life-long career and are thinking about trying something new, here are some options to think about:

Take a slow exit. Talk with your employer about gradually cutting back on your hours. This will make the transition easier for you and will give your boss the time to train someone to do the job after you leave.

Try a new job on a part time basis. If you want to keep working but are ready for a change, consider trying a new career on a part-time basis.

Share your job. If you are happy where you are, but want to cut back on hours, ask your employer about doing a job share with another employee.

Be a temp. Talk to a temporary agency. You might be able to work part-time or full-time for a while for several different businesses and enjoy the variety.

Take a break. If you are thinking about retirement, but are not sure about a total break from work, ask your employer if you can take a short leave of absence (also called a sabbatical). You may find that you are ready to stop working after all, or you may find that you’d like to go back to work doing something completely different.

The first year after retirement can be full of emotions. You might experience a combination of relief, anxiety, excitement and confusion about your new identity as a retired person. These feelings are normal. If they become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to talk with a clergy person, a doctor or a counselor.

What people love about being retired:

• The freedom to take on creative projects that they didn’t have time to do when they were working.

• The freedom to use their skills for pleasure instead of work.

• The time and energy to devote themselves fully to families and friends.

• Long lunch hours and long coffee breaks.

• Sleeping late in the morning.

• The freedom to travel at a moment’s notice.

• • •

Upcoming senior activities:

Walleye Fish Fry on Thursday, April 30 at the Elks from 4 to 7 p.m. to benefit the Let’s Go Fishing with Seniors program.

Chahinkapa Zoo and Dakota Magic Casino trip on May 20. Bus leaves KMart at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $31.

Canterbury Park, Saturday, June 27. Watch live racing. Bus leaves KMart at 10 a.m. Cost is $33.

Contact Mary at the Douglas County Senior Office for more information, (320) 762-3047.

Tags: life, column, krueger, senior