I Need a Compass for Retirement

Ek Ursin, MD

Summer 2002 - Volume 6 Number 3

A glorious ride into the sunset, or a

Semi-tragic tale of self-pity

Real tragedy:

Real, not perceived

Poor health

Death one week after retirement

Motives that trigger action

It is high time

I can hardly wait

I have a right to it

I’ve worked my ... off (expletive deleted)

I was taken advantage of

I have a second career planned out

I need to take care of family

I have health problems

Real or perceived

I fear the innuendoes

from a boss or colleague

getting too old

judgment slipping

Factors that delay decision making

Lack of money

Real or perceived

Fear of being useless

In family

In my head

"I still have boundless energy"

Real or perceived

Reality, or wishful thinking

Fear of more time with spouse

Real or perceived

Other ...

Illusions

Gadgets

Quick fixes, and

Computers

Established Retirement

"Success"

Attitude

Optimist, pessimist

Active, passive

Self-centered, people-oriented

Fearful, accepting

Resourcefulness

Never had it; that’s a pity

"Have it just like grandpa"

Hobbies

A panacea? For many

Exercise? Within reason

Golf’s okay; avoid hang-gliding

Finances

Complex

See an expert

Family

Marriage, treasure it

Nuclear and extended, be a diplomat

Disability—carry the cross