One of the quiet fears of retirement is not-knowing what to do. Prior to pulling the trigger, life often follows a predictable path. Processes, procedures, and expectations are neatly mapped out. Then you step cross that threshold, and boom the map disappears.
After the initial honeymoon–traveling, sleeping in, doing absolutely nothing– an unsettling thought begins to stir: now what? No rules. No boss. No schedule. For those spent years in the military, where every hour is spoken for, this absence of structure can be especially daunting.
That fear of the unknown keeps many from leaping into retirement. Because, instead of following instruction and being told of what to do, they would have to take on something much harder– agency. Moving forward is no longer a cinch. They now have to figure it out.
I’m no expert, but if you’re thinking about retiring, here are a few starting points: what gives you joy, even in small doses? What passion might be quietly waiting its turn? What promises–either to yourself or others–still waiting to be fulfilled?
What planning or preparation would you suggest?
Running with Buddha 