I recently read an article in The Economist titled “Why You Should Never Retire, ” which explained something I’ve been grappling with for a while – the importance of remaining useful. I’m likely at the top of my career, but how can I leverage this position?
How can I continue to be useful to others as I grow older?
Retirement is not an option for me.
Sure, I play a decent round of golf (although my boys might say otherwise), I like going hunting with my dog, Esther and I like to travel, but I don’t enjoy or get satisfaction only from my hobbies as many folks do.
The research says approximately one out of three Americans will never retire. A steady flux of income is the main reason, but the lucky few who don’t have to work financially don’t see the value in swapping the excitement of being in business for playing cards or going on a never-ending world cruise.
The article points to guys like Giorgio Armani (fashion guru and Italy’s second richest man) and Charlie Munger, who passed away last year — to show that age is just a number. I find them inspiring. I’m going to work regardless.
I’m just trying to figure out how to do it smarter and better and use my skills, connections, and relationships rather than my assets and balance sheet.
As I have mentioned time and time again, healthcare is where I belong—this is the space where I excel, where I have made my mark. Healthcare people are my people! It’s also an industry that has been good to me and my family. Another saying I really like is: “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” I love what I do, so why would I retire?
As my preacher said, business is my gift. As long as I share my experiences and guide others to achieve their goals, I will keep working and doing what I do best because helping others energizes me.
As the article suggests, “… there is depth in being useful,” and as long as I can make a difference in the lives of others, I’m here to play the long game.
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