I approached retirement with a fair amount of apprehension. I had always enjoyed the work I did because it was interesting, challenging, full of surprises and very intense. My career was in sales of medical diagnostic equipment, a winner take all process that had long sales cycles and vigorous competition. At times it was frustrating since even the best sales folks lose often!
Retirement seemed to be a stress-free environment filled with boating, photography, travel. What I worried about was the lack of excitement and challenge. As I left work I lined up several volunteer pursuits working with non-profits whose mission I agreed with. They served worthy goals and I was surrounded by interesting people who were committed. This seemed like a good plan until I realized that I had no passion for the work I had agreed to do. I was not energized and consumed by the challenge. It didn’t bother me that I wasn’t being paid, I accepted that going in, it was the internal motivation and stimulation I was missing. In my work life, the results were obvious and everyone knew when your group was successful.
What I came to realize was that my life purpose was not being met. As I thought about this I realized I was a bit fuzzy about what my life purpose was. I began a search into pursuits that would stimulate me and “light me up”. This began the journey I’m on now, one that I realize will continue. I think we are all on a lifetime journey. We expand and grow or we wither and die. I was not growing, I was stagnant!
As my eyes opened wider to my lack of passion about retired life I started looking at the things that made me passionate. I realized that mentoring people in the companies I worked for was quite fulfilling. One thing led to another and decided to look into coaching school. I will continue my story in future blogs – stay tuned!
