As I write another letter of recommendation for a medical assistant pursuing their dream of becoming a nurse, I’m filled with mixed emotions. Pride, because I’m thrilled to see them grow and take the next step in their journey. Sadness, because their departure leaves a gap. But isn’t this what we want? For those we mentor to evolve, take risks, and grow into their full potential? If we desire this for others, shouldn’t we also desire it for ourselves?
Many of us in mid-to-late careers wonder, “Is this all there is until retirement?” On the outside, life can seem perfect with a stable career, financial security, and a wonderful family. Yet inside, there’s often a restlessness. If you’re feeling stagnant or unfulfilled, it might be time to embrace “pre-tirement.” Pre-tirement is a work/life reinvention that invigorates your life and extends your working years with renewed purpose.
For years, I questioned why I felt restless whenever I reached a steady state. Why couldn’t I just be content? Over time, I realized this yearning for growth wasn’t a flaw; it was human nature. As the song “Corner of the Sky” from Pippin puts it: “I want my life to be something more than long.”
Life is a balance though, and finding that balance can be tricky. My mother taught me the value of ambition; of chasing dreams with drive. She taught me that a woman can be and do anything she wants. My mother-in-law, on the other hand, showed me the beauty of stillness; savoring quiet moments and appreciating simplicity. For years, I swung between these extremes, working so hard I had to rest, then resting so hard I craved work; all while feeling guilty. Recently, Valarie Kaur’s book See No Stranger gave me a new perspective. She describes “push and breathe”, a concept from labor that applies to life transitions. To give birth to a new version of yourself, you need both. You need the work and the rest, the striving and the stillness.
Pre-tirement isn’t about achieving more; it’s about doing more of what matters and letting go of what doesn’t. It’s a time to shift focus to priorities that bring you joy and meaning. For me, this means less time in direct patient care, more time in leadership and coaching, and a renewed focus on self-care and family. It’s about remembering that growth often requires letting go, which can feel bittersweet.
If you’re feeling unfulfilled or bored, or sensing a pull toward different priorities, it’s a sign that it might be time for a change. Pause. Reflect. Ask yourself what you truly want. Then, take steps to bring that vision to life.
Pre-tirement is an opportunity to redefine your path, balancing purpose with rest. It’s a chance to create a life that is not only long but also deeply meaningful.
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