After finishing up with my coaching clients the other day, I enjoyed a short walk to my car. The sun was shining, and the air, though brisk, was clean and fresh. Striking clouds bubbled up in the distant sky. Posing no threat of rain, they appeared as though an artist had joyfully painted them into the landscape.
I still had a few hours of light left and I found myself wondering if I might sneak in a walk. And then a little realization quietly crept into my mind. It was a mere whisper really … I could retire.
Now, let me be perfectly clear. I’m not saying that I am retiring. (Quite the contrary, I thoroughly enjoy the work I’m doing these days.) I’m simply saying that I enjoyed a lovely moment of clarity. It was a simple, pure thought … if I wanted end to my career, and do something else, I could.
Naturally, I’m very grateful for this option, even if it isn’t my choice right now. But what about you? How many of you could retire but don’t know how? How many of you fear this next phase, wondering what you will do with yourself? Now might just be the moment when you would benefit from entertaining what will happen next in your life. Yes, it can be daunting but it can also be one of the best phases of life you’ll ever have.