The Unthinkable

Don’t be afraid or ashamed to think “the unthinkable”

You don’t need us to tell you that the job search environment has changed dramatically over the past couple of decades. That “change” however, goes far beyond the job search.

The entire workforce has changed. From the types of jobs we’re holding and pursuing, to the training and skills required to compete and complete those jobs. All the molds of our parents generation (and beyond) already have been shattered or are currently bursting at the seams.

Kick back and relax

Among those preconceptions that don’t necessarily apply anymore is the idea of retirement. It used to be that an individual worked for a company for 30-40 years and then, at age 65 (or thereabouts,) rode off into the sunset to play golf, go to garage sales or spend time with the grandchildren.

During the first quarter of the 21st Century all that is changing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that there are more people over the age of 65 working today than at any time in our history (U.S. and human).

Some are working out of necessity – mostly financial. Others though, are working because they want and/or need to. Being involved. Having a purpose. These are very high on their lists of priorities.

Many experts agree noting that “retirement is an ancient and irrelevant artifact. To deliberately stop contributing, creating and providing value to others is unthinkable (and a slippery slope to irrelevancy and decline).” That decline can be mental or physical – either of which literally can lead to the “D-word.”

If you have the resources to retire, go for it. If not, or if you just want to keep on doing something relevant, go for that as well. And, don’t be uncomfortable about it. Go for it with all the gusto you’ve had all your life and don’t let the calendar dictate how you should live your life.

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