“Do you get bored?” In various gatherings, I hear people ask Rupal some variation of that question. They are asking her because it’s been close to one year of not working for her.
The simple answer is no. I watch her verbal gyrations as she gives diplomatic answers. Not bored, she tells them because there is lots to do, things to take care of, new things to research.
In the seven months that I haven’t gone to work there has not been a single day that I’ve had problems spending time. No matter how much free time one has there are books, movies, podcasts, blogs and new and interesting websites competing for that time.
In a recent issue of Kiplinger’s finance magazine, I read the last editorial by Fred Frailey just prior to his retirement. He writes of his predecessor telling him that “there will come a morning when you'll wake up and realize that every day is a Saturday."
Yes, there are many reasons to go back to work after dabbling with retirement. Financial reasons, or maybe one’s career ambitions resurfaces, or one’s feeling of self-worth is tied to how productive one is in society. These are all good reasons but boredom shouldn’t be one of them.
New Yorkers, never ones to hold back are fond of saying about their beloved city. "If you are in New York City and you are bored, it's your own fault."
That exact sentiment, I suspect, applies to early retirement.
Ram
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3 comments:
Every once in awhile, I feel a little bored (which really means I just don't have the energy to DO anything--there's always plenty to do!)
But the reality is I was bored WAY more often when I was working than am retired.
I don't know, maybe all these people that ask that question have WAY more exciting jobs than the one I had . . .
There are lot of things to do when you are already retired. But the thing is, do you have enough money to sustain your early retirement? be sure to fulfill your dream before you retire.
You know, maintaining an active lifestyle with your peers will dispel that boredom within you. But if you really miss working a lot, due to your routine for many years, you could try working at home. There are so many opportunities out there that may need your skill. :)
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