Retired and Still Struggling at 67
I wish that I could say that I have found excitement or even contentment in being "retired" for the past 3 years. But, I have not come to that place of acceptance and, then, forward thinking.
From the age of 18, I became successful as a radio announcer, then TV newscaster, moving to an acting career in theater, TV and movies. I also worked as a model and appeared in hundreds of TV commercials. In my 40's and 50's, I discovered a new career as a speaker and presenter at trade shows and conventions.
My identity, was, naturally, tied directly to my personal appearance and the acceptance and approval of clients and audiences. As I grew older, even though I stayed in excellent shape and good health, my marketability dropped dramatically and after 60 I was getting very few calls from agents and clients.
This has proven to be a very serious blow to my feelings of self worth and I have not yet discovered a way to "reinvent" myself.
Over the past few years, I have been depressed daily and have sought the help of therapists and medications. These methods are not working for me and I often feel hopeless, even though I have a very supportive family.
I would very much appreciate the comments of anyone else who has found themselves in this position and what steps they may have taken to move in a positive direction.
Wendy: I think you need to work -- somewhere, anywhere.. just to keep busy. Some people (me) just aren't made to retire.. at least, not until they are content with "real" retirement.
Since you were a speaker at one point, why not try something tied to speaking? Could you possibly look into doing a local radio show? Voice Overs?
Have you ever heard of Blog Talk Radio? I just learned of it and it's where anyone can host their own radio show. People can subscribe to the show, download on ipods or whatever, and listen!
Is there something you might consider doing a show on? Just have fun, even if you only do a show monthly... or weekly... just something to research and go towards!
A few years ago, I was really into listening to different shows on my ipod, now I am into reading on my Kindle. BUT I never realized what I was listening to... I downloaded Christian radio shows, and I remember one guy who verbally walked you through his travels (pretty vividly to). I enjoyed it but never knew anyone could do this.
It could be an idea for you -- your own show just for the fun of it, more as a hobby -- or possibly a joint venture with a website, or helping others with their shows... especially if you've done public speaking or have the right voice!
p.s. I can't believe with all the Boomer Marketing out there, boomer actors aren't still needed. We are the biggest generation ever to hit retirement.... find a new "boomer" or "senior" agent!!
Pick yerself up by your bootstraps and get moving again!
