Why Retirement Can Be a Difficult Adjustment

When I pursued my university education, we once had a teacher who was around 90 years old. Although he had the option to retire or travel, he continued to come to class every day, even climbing those long marble stairs to the fifth floor. His subject wasn't the most fascinating, and it was challenging for the students to stay engaged. However, I was always curious: why did he continue to work?

It turned out that he had a lifelong career of hard work. A few years before, his wife passed away, and his children were busy with their lives, visiting less often than he wished. Loneliness set in, and he believed that as soon as he stopped working and moving, his life would feel like it had come to a close. This story highlights the intricacies of retirement, demonstrating that for many, it can be a significant challenge when life loses its constant progress and movement.

Redefining Retirement Amidst Professional Success

As a young individual, the concept of retirement seemed like a distant dream. Now, with retirement approaching and my career being well-funded, it feels less desirable. I have a fulfilling job with good pay, and while my retirement savings are solid, having extra money is less appealing. Additionally, my profession is highly respected, and I enjoy the status and respect within my professional circle. Giving this up is not something I'm looking forward to.

Retirement is usually seen as the end of a journey, but it doesn't have to be. For some individuals, it can mean a change in pace rather than an end. However, it is certainly harder for others. When I had the chance to retire at an early age, I opted to go for my PhD with the intention of teaching at a small law school. Within a few years, I found myself bored. So, I returned to work. Many people might find this surprising, but it is surprisingly common for some individuals to return to work after retirement.

Although we may grumble at our jobs, especially on bad days, there are elements of our lives that we miss when they're gone. For me, it was the adrenaline rush and the sense of accomplishment that came with closing a difficult transaction. I felt respected and needed in my role, and the idea of just researching and typing out a thesis seemed unfulfilling and irrelevant. Many people retire happily and never look back, and I envy them. However, for some, there's a part of themselves that is deeply tied to their career. It is not just what they do but a significant part of who they are. Losing that can create a void that is difficult to fill.

For many individuals, the title they once used to describe themselves as often reflects their career. When you're no longer in that role, a part of your identity can feel lost. In my case, my job title on Quora is my profession. This shift can be particularly challenging when you're no longer in that role. It's a reminder of the deeper emotional and psychological ties we often form with our careers.