Retirement

 "Retirement: A New Beginning, Not an End"

Retirement often carries the weight of societal expectations, defined by an arbitrary age—58 or 60. For many in government or corporate sectors, this stage is synonymous with stepping away from work, settling into a quieter routine, and embracing life.

Family and friends frequently echo the same sentiment: “Why work after retirement? Just relax and enjoy life.”

But retirement doesn’t have to mean a full stop. Instead, it’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover passions and pursue dreams often sidelined during a busy career. This was consultancy—a field that combines my love for learning, travel, and meeting new people. It’s a journey that keeps me energized and fulfilled, even as I let go of old bonds and embrace new beginnings.

When I bid farewell to my corporate career, some of the relationships I had nurtured over decades seemed to fade overnight. It was a stark reminder that not all connections are as enduring as they appear. This realization made me focus on building a more meaningful and joyful world around me.

Inspiration for this mindset comes from the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai—finding purpose in life. Many Japanese individuals never truly "retire." Instead, they continue doing what they love, as long as health permits. This belief fosters longevity, vibrancy, and a life brimming with meaning.

In 2019, I met a 96-year-old gentleman running a small tuck shop atop a hill in Mahabaleshwar. His zest for life, coupled with a strong sense of purpose, left me awestruck. His story reaffirmed my belief that age is merely a number—what truly matters is your spirit and determination to keep moving forward.

Retirement is not the end of your journey; it’s a fresh chapter. Plan ahead, embrace your passions, and make every moment count. Life, after all, is about continuous growth, no matter the stage. As my beloved  Chairman, of RIL,  Shri Mukesh Ambani, rightly says, “Growth is life.”

#RetirementPlanning #Ikigai #NewBeginnings #LifeAfter60 #PurposefulLiving