So You Want to Work After Retirement: Tips for Baby Boomers and Seniors

You are retiring shortly and still want to work. There are others like you, including many baby boomers and seniors.

 .

“Should you work after retirement?” you ask yourself. 

Working after retirement becomes a matter of personal preference. At times, working appears to be the best option for a retiree because of his or her financial status upon retirement, but to work or not to work is a decision made by each person who retires.

Working after retirement can provide a financial solution that enables a retiree to do things that hitherto, he or she has not been able to do like purchase a new car, a boat or travel to exotic places. Sometimes, family life takes precedence and the retiree’s work becomes that of helping sons or daughters raise their grandchildren.

Goal oriented or job directed retirement would appear to be preferable to a non-work oriented or an unplanned retirement. Many people make plans in advance for their retirement, exploring different realms of discovery, their pastimes or other employment challenges ahead of time, while focusing on their retirement options. Others just let retirement happen and deal with their situation and circumstances then.

“Don't simply retire from something; have something to retire to.” These are the words of  Harry Emerson Fosdick

Forced retirement is not optional. A person forced to retire early does not necessarily receive sufficient income to retire comfortably and has to find work because continuing employment is essential in terms of financial survival. In this kind of a scenario, re-training or upgrading prior to or immediately after early retirement may be advisable, as it will increase the number of possible employment options.

Continuing to work after retirement is often a good idea, as it can help the retiree remain mentally, physically and emotionally healthy. Of course, not everyone who retires is able to continue working or wants to work, particularly not full time. Part time work may be more appropriate. Traveling, pursuing hobbies or other activities may appear more inviting. At times, a retiree needs time to rest and wants to return to work later.

A person who is accustomed to a lot of physical activity may have limitations by the age of retirement, but will probably be happier doing some kind of work that uses his or her excess energy, like working as a tour guide for a park or planting in a greenhouse. Sometimes, working in childcare as a helper in a school environment or taking care of seniors fills the need to work.

Remember that many retirees have a strong work ethic. Finding suitable post-retirement employment is not necessarily easy as there may not be suitable work available for retirees. The options may be limited, but usually a person who is serious about working can find work of some kind. Seasonal employment is one option for retirees to consider.

Senior centers and employment offices may have suggestions for retirees who want to work. Many charitable organizations employ retirees to work on various projects. 

Working boosts the retiree’s self-esteem and gives a feeling of accomplishment. It also sets a good example for the younger generation.

Creating one’s own work is one solution for a retiree who wants to work post-retirement. Starting one’s own business, at this time in life, is not necessarily easy, but is another option to consider. Perhaps you as a retiree, have special skills you could use to mentor others or want to develop further.

Should you work after retirement? Do you want to? Begin to make plans that are appropriate for you and your family. Explore the Internet, as well as other avenues and you may discover that your true life’s work has just begun.