Continuing to Develop the Next Phase

Over the last six months since I made the decision to retire (eight months earlier than planned), I have been grappling with and defining what the next chapters of my life will look like. I have engaged with volunteer organizations and began substitute teaching, which I have found enjoyable. However, I still find myself wondering what is next and what I should do while I wait for my spouse to retire in 2 years. While we are financially well-prepared, I discovered that I did not plan well for what I was going to retire into versus just retiring from. Some of this is a result of retiring eight months earlier than planned, and some are because my spouse is still working and does not have the flexibility that I now have. Interestingly, many of the things I thought I would enjoy, such as photography, I have not really pursued. However, I have found an interest in writing more, hence this blog. It serves both as a blog and a bit of self-reflection.

I want to take a deeper look at each of these areas and have a little more self-reflection.

Feeling a Bit Lost:

After leaving my employer of 28 years, I realized how much of my identity was tied up in that work. It sounds like a cliche, but it is true. Working 50-60 hours a week for 28 years, I had connections there, work friends, consistency, routine, and familiarity. And the next day, it was all gone. While I still talk to a few former co-workers, most of them have moved on. Over the last 6 months, I have been looking for what my new identity will be. While many retirees go back to work, it is not for money; it is for connection and purpose. I would like to find those without going back to a job. I feel like I am well-positioned to do that. While teaching is a job, I do find it rewarding as well. I have come to terms with the fact that my old identity is gone, and I am now forging a new one!

Biking and Outdoor Activities:

One thing I have reconnected with is my enjoyment of biking. Since I retired, I go for a 15–20-mile ride every morning. It has become a highlight of my day. I will continue this and plan on investing in a better bike and entering some gravel bike races, as well as taking a few short local bikepacking trips. As I have reflected, this is a passion that I had as a young child. Biking was my escape from a volatile, chaotic, and tense home life. It gave me a sense of freedom without stress or fear of anger coming my way. This is what has instilled in me a passion and desire to always be moving and exploring. While that fire has been suppressed for many years, as we transition to both of us being retired, I look forward to the opportunity to go out and about!

So, after six months, I have embraced retirement and the joy and ability to really do what I want, when I want. With this freedom comes the opportunity to find purpose and connections that not only add value to my life but also ensure that what I do is aligned with my passions and desires.

Stick around for more reflections.