Is this it?

by Snow
(Idaho)

I always said I wanted to retire at 50. Well at 51 I finally pulled the plug. Now at 61 I've done nothing but struggle in retirement. Not for money, I have an great package. Rather, emotionally.

I've had numerous jobs to try and fill the void, but ultimately when any drama starts I just move on. A perk of not having to work.

I just don't want to do anything. I've lost interest in all I used to love. I thought of hunting, fishing, backpacking. For the first year, it was great, but then it was no longer special or fun.

Also no one else was retired so it was usually a solo adventure. I'm retired law enforcement so I have that stay away nature about me, that doesn't help. Knowing what I know now I would have never left my career.

Think long and hard before you pull the plug.
The grass isn't always greener.

Comments for Is this it?

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Is That All There Is?
by: Canadian Retiree

I hear your pain. Since I retired my life has become like the song Is That All There Is?

I'm 66 now and I retired just before turning 64. I had always planned to make it to 65 before jumping into retirement, but life doesn't always go according to plan.

I was recovering from breast cancer treatments and struggling to find my path back to work. I almost made it, but one day made a snap decision to retire. I don't even remember why.

I've found some activities to keep me busy but COVID restrictions have halted some of them. I'm getting my second shot this month so there is light at the end of the tunnel.

I sometimes dream I am work and the idea of working again appeals to me but at the same time I feel like too much time has passed and I'm an old has been.

I'm glad to see I'm not alone in my feelings thanks for sharing your retirement story,
What's its all about?
by: Deborah, Bath OH

I am right there with you. I have a wonderful home, pension, health but after retirement in a hole I can't seem to get out of.

I swim 3x a week and bowl 2x a week and yard work 2 days. I'm thankful for all I have and feel fortunate. I am bored in the afternoons and evenings. I bought puzzles, rented movies and books from the library, journal every day ... But still in a hole.

Any suggestions would be welcomed.
Too Young
by: John A/Tyler, TX

Personally, I think you were probably much too young to retire at 50-51 since there is a lot more for you to offer in gainful employment or elsewhere. But, that's just my opinion.

It seems as though you have lost your way by thinking this is it. It isn't. It's just the beginning.

You have tons of other things that you can do to make life more meaningful. I am sure you have tons of great things to offer. Coming to Wendy's retirement website is a good place to start in looking for that "something" to spark an interest.

Just keep in mind that if you do absolutely nothing, you'll never know when you are finished.

Get out there and do something, anything; don't vegetate since that will put you in an early grave. Find a new purpose in life that will bring joy.

I hope you find whatever you are looking for in your retirement years. BEST WISHES!!
My Thoughts
by: Wendy, Retirement Enthusiast/Coach

To me, "retired law enforcement" says it all.

Law enforcement, like the military, are tighter than other occupations. These co-workers have your back (heck, your life!) -- unlike most drama-filled workplaces. That's not saying there is no insider tension in LE; no workplace is perfect.

Please consider writing to me -- top right. Maybe we can brainstorm some possibilities for you?

You are too young to "give up". There must be something you can do to continue with purpose! I know there is.

I pray you find what you are seeking!

p.s. On that "stay away" nature of yours, I will never forget an Undercover Cop who retired after too many years undercover. He said he needed to relearn there are good people out there after too many years of dealing with a dark world. He needed to clean himself up, years looking scrubby to play the part, and put himself out there again.

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