Life as a retiree ROCKS! 

One of the best decisions I’ve ever made: RETIRING! In my Facebook memories at the end of every quarter, I see my countdown to break – e.g., “Two done, one to go.” With each memory, I feel the stress of grading, teaching, working…being BEHOLDEN. Then I reflect on life NOW. There’s so much more time and freedom to do what I want, when I want to do it. Spend time with family and friends, travel, read, photography, volunteer…BE. This moment in my life ROCKS!!!

Let me explain… I LOVED teaching.  I LOVED working with (most of) my students.  I LOVED mentoring students.  I LOVED the intellectual challenge of higher education.  HOWEVER, when I was done, I was DONE.  Before the pandemic, I would walk into my college and, simultaneously, hold two thoughts:  1) I love my job; and 2) I want to retire.  When COVID-19 hit and I had to transition to remote teaching, the joy of teaching dissipated.  I no longer had the pleasure of spontaneous authentic conversations with students and colleagues.  I no longer had the fun of truly connecting with others.  I no longer had the satisfaction of feeling like I made an impact on someone’s life.

With this as background, when the opportunity arose to retire I evaluated my financial position and submitted my retirement paperwork.  I have NEVER looked back!

Do I miss the day-to-day interaction with students?  Yes, if it could be BC (Before COVID).  Talking to friends who are still teaching, I know the world of education is forever changed.  This does not mean it is better or worse – just different.  This time, I had the privilege to choose which different I want for my life.

The different I have now:  TIME!  I have TIME to relax, breathe, hike, travel, explore – all with friends and family – or on my own. 

It is the FREEDOM that comes with retirement that I LOVE.