We have to admit this: We are getting older. But with 78 million of us still employed, we are forcing companies to reinvent what it means to be "old" and still working. Since many of us don't have to think about retirement for another
five to15 years, to avoid confusion and frustration, it can't hurt to think about what we really want to be experiencing in our job to make it an easier transition.
The ideal job for baby boomers would include flexible hours so we have the availability for our aging parents or growing children. It may mean working fewer hours, with an option of working from home, communicating by phone or via the computer.
Another ideal job would be venturing into entrepreneurship, becoming our own boss, by doing what we truly love. This may involve going back to school for additional training or education to be sure we are up-to-date.
According to Marc Freedman, author of Prime Time, Baby Boomers are causing society to reassess what retirement truly means. No longer are we expected to play golf all day long, but are instead exploring a mix of working and relaxing and perhaps dabbling into new ventures.
Sometime between the ages of 50 and 70, we will be considering retirement. Every seven seconds, someone in
Consider what you want. You have a lot of clout and ability to redefine work to fit your needs. You are more active and healthier and you probably want to
ease into retirement. This process can be started now if you think about it. Develop and implement a career transition plan that reflects the balance
you are looking for.
Amy is the author of Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life. She can be reached at amy@bummedoutboomer.com or at http://www.distressfreeaging.com.