Retired: Big City College Dean

by Amy J
(Chicago, Ill)

Due to school budget cut backs, I was suddenly in the position to retire somewhat earlier than I had planned, and I decided to take some time to evaluate what I wanted to do next.

Should I seek full time or part time employment? Should I become a volunteer somewhere ? What skills did I have that I wanted to use? What needs did I have to consider?

The very first thing I did do was volunteer to provide child care to my first born grand daughter in Taiwan for 2 months. This provided a huge challenge and important work.

Once I returned home I began to make lists of things I wanted to do, people I wanted to see, small and medium chores I wanted to do, and activities I wanted to explore. I also began to work on a personal mission statement. So that I would have focus.

Wendy: Like so many, early retirement opportunities (voluntary and forced) abound... now who are you and what will you do next?

RE-Invent yourself... not necessarily talking employment, but life in general. What do you want to do daily? Is it time to get some creativity into your life? Take some Me Time (any health issues? alternative health opportunities to explore? start at the gym if you didn't find time before?) Do you need supplemental income?

If you choose to work, do you work for an employer again, same field as that's easiest, or something completely different, full time or part time -- or become an entrepreneur for yourself?

Decisions, Decisions! Fun! Fun!

If you are lucky, you have a pension which means you have the opportunity to choose where life leads next!

Best Wishes!