Key Takeaways
- Being pushed into early retirement can be shocking, even for top performers.
- It’s important to explore new opportunities after the initial shock.
- Schedule networking events but allow time for reflection and research.
- Volunteering can lead to new connections and potential opportunities.
- Stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, and focused) throughout this transition.
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
You’ve been comfortable in your role for years.
You’ve performed well. You’re successful at what you do.
Then one day, your manager calls you into their office.
It’s Friday afternoon – that’s not a good sign.
And then it happens to you.
You’ve heard of business connections and friends being pushed into early retirement.
But you NEVER expected it to happen to you.
How could it? You’re a star performer.
And face it, you’re not even that old.
Being pushed into early retirement does NOT mean the end of your work-life.
Many executives who are pushed into early retirement still rely on their role at work to define their self-worth.
That’s why it’s hard to end a career suddenly.
After the initial shock, start looking for your next career step.
Maybe you want to pursue a passion such as photography or landscaping.
Maybe you want to teach at a local college.
Start talking with your connections to find that next opportunity.
Schedule networking meetings and events but don’t overbook yourself.
Block off time to reflect and explore possibilities.
Use that time to research different fields.
Renting a temporary office may help if you find it challenging to work from home.
There are many virtual office spaces or communities where you can rent space short-term.
Be realistic with your time and don’t overbook yourself.
It’s easy to burn out while looking for that next opportunity.
Increase your nonprofit activity by volunteering.
Use your volunteer time to build new connections which could lead to new opportunities.
Become more active in your community by joining a committee.
Another option is to become a Board member of a local nonprofit organization.
You never know who you’ll meet while helping those in need.
The more you put yourself out there to meet with different connections, the quicker you’ll find an opportunity right for you.
It’s a new chapter in your life – enjoy the journey.
And remember to stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, and focused)!
(Update to original post from August 7, 2024)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC (TransitionPG®). She believes life is more than accumulating money – it’s about living the lifestyle you envision and can afford. Niv incorporates all aspects of life when discussing money. She developed the 5 P’s of Life (Personal Relationships, Personal Finance, Profession, Peace of Mind, and Physical Health) to help clients define what they want from life. Once she understands their vision, she helps them achieve their lifestyle or adjust their expectations based on their finances. Niv actively gives back to the community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, exploring the world, and laughing often—even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’” Click HERE to read where she’s been quoted in the media.
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