Retirement: Is it all you dreamed of?

We all know we are entering into an era where the baby boomers are beginning to retire. After decades of working (and being a changing force in politics, music, Hollywood, etc), boomers will finally be able to sit back and rest. But studies have shown there are higher suicides rates among those 65 and older due to depression.

The NY Times article, “Off Your Rocker: For a Happy Retirement,
Don't Swap Work for the Front Porch,” provides useful, practical advice on retirement--- namely, don’t retire.

Yes, you read right--- don’t retire.

Think of age 65 as the time when you change courses in your life. You can retire from your current job--- but don’t retire from the workforce. To most people, work provides people with more than just a paycheck (though that’s always a great motivator). Work also provides a place to socialize, make friends. It even provides exercise (think about how many times you’ve had to run to catch that train or bus in order to get to work on time). But most importantly, work provides a reason to get up in the morning--- a place where you can use your mind and make a difference.

Perhaps, when boomers retire they can take a type of sabbatical--- a year or two—and then go back and pursue something they are truly passionate about. Perhaps be a culinary chef? Perhaps be a teacher?

Whatever you decide, don’t think of retirement as a permanent vacation. Think of it as a time to pursue your passions and be a force in society.