Rewrite Your Story

The “retirement” system is broken.  We all know that people are living much longer and most need or want to work later in life.  And while some might disagree, most can only spend so much time on the golf course or walking on the beach.  Even coffee with your spouse every morning and planning the day may be losing its luster.

For about a century, we’ve been taught to follow the prescribed plan.  Turn 65 and then retire.  If you are in a northern climate, find a home in the sun somewhere and become a snow-bird.  Hang out with your grandkids and prepare yourself for the long road down.  Today, this script is not only antiquated but being shredded by millions of people who have realized that having made it to age 65, there’s a good chance they may live to be at least 90 or older.  The proverbial game of golf or walks on the beach may not be sustainable for 25 years.

In 1881 chancellor Otto von Bismark proposed a social program that promised security for older citizens and while there is some debate, age 70 was the number he chose knowing few would reach that milestone.  Sadly, this became the template we continue to use today, only we’ve decided that age 65 is more appropriate.  Back in Otto’s day you basically worked until you died.

Retirement communities for those in their “golden years” promised a life of pure post-retirement bliss and things went along swimmingly until they didn’t.

The definition of “old” is still a bit fuzzy but is generally used to describe something that is worn out – old cars, old shoes, old people.  According to one study from the U.S. 69% of Baby Boomers are already working past 65 and in fact re-wiring themselves into other activities – some want to and some have to. 

I believe we need a new cultural framework and social policy to accommodate the idea that living longer necessitates a demand for more engagement and purpose for individuals long into their 70’s and 80’s.  We need to rethink how we consider our lives after our main careers – a second act for a greater good.

The transition out of work at age 65 is laden with anxiety and uncertainty that compounds when we consider another 25 years of life.  A new road map is needed and with the immense number of people reaching the age of “retirement”, it doesn’t take a math genius to see the challenges ahead for our communities.   

Let us help you re-write your story.