Millennials and Gen Z have actually matured in a period marked by sweeping modification. So their turning points, particularly when it pertains to retirement, will look various than older generations’ did.
Life hardly ever ends up precisely how we anticipate. In my early 50 s, I was required to retire early after a near-death experience to look after my health. But at 62, after feeling tired, agitated and stuck, I un-retired and began a training business to assist individuals accomplish a more satisfying retirement than I did.
Here are 4 misconceptions about retirement that more individuals require to speak about:
Myth # 1: Life follows a direct course.
Many child boomers think that life has 3 significant chapters: Get an education; get a task and get wed; and retire and take pleasure in the downtime.
But life is a lot more flexible than that. People in their 60 s and 70 s begin brand-new professions and brand-new relationships all the time, and youths can accomplish a life of balance prior to age 65.
Don’t await retirement to live the life you desire. Tomorrow is never ever ensured, so require time to do activities you take pleasure in every day.
Let go of the pressure to figure whatever out. At 62, I began an organization I would’ve never ever envisioned in my 20 s or 30 s.
Myth # 2: You can’t teach an old canine brand-new techniques.
As kids, we are so curious. But I’ve discovered that in my generation, the older we get, the more we stop asking concerns.
The brain is a muscle that requires workout. Learning assists us feel engaged with the world, and it’s good for brain health and memory.
Dive deep into things that you’re interested in. For example, I love learning about how our minds, personalities and identities work. Or you could pursue a hobby where there’s always room for development, like gardening or starting a charity.
Myth #3: Your 20s and 30s are your best years.
Our consumer society has created the narrative that everything and everyone has a sell-by date.
The Roman philosopher Cicero wrote: “Old age is the crown of life.” Watch elders who are active and happy. Ask them what physical, mental, and community activities keep them engaged. You may be surprised to learn that they actually feel ageless on the inside.
It won’t be too long before you become an elder, too, so it’s in your best interest to discover what challenges you will be facing and what joys you can discover.
Myth #4: There’s no point in thinking about death.
Keeping death at the top of mind might sound strange, but until the age of 52, I thought I was immortal. Then my oncologist told me I had six months to live. The diagnosis was thankfully wrong, but what a wake-up call.
Benedictine monks are encouraged to “keep death daily before your eyes,” so that they can live life more fully and in a detached manner.
I found that remembering death can come at any time eliminated my mindless pursuits and worries. It allowed me to be more present and do more things that were actually important to me.
Cultivate your own garden
My best life advice is to have compassion for yourself. And whatever you do, follow your own north star. Each person has a different beautiful and difficult journey.
Keep doing what you love, master your skills, and acknowledge your progress.
When you cultivate your own garden — your unique skills and passions — you are always awake in your present moment.
George Jerjian is the author of “Dare to Discover Your Purpose: Retire, Refire, Rewire.” An Emmy-award-winning producer and author of 10 books, he earned his business degree from Bradford University in England and a master’s degree in Journalism from New York University. Follow him on Twitter @GeorgeJerjian
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