“Actually, nothing. I’m retired.” Man, I love saying that! Two years and four months in, it’s still a huge novelty for me. In retrospect, I never really planned for retirement when I was younger. I figured I’d either be married and raising a family, or work until I dropped. What happened was a surprise to everyone, especially me. Marrying at age 53, life took on a whole new hue. I’m living in Technicolor now.
Schedules and rigidity have been replaced by self-exploration, travel and expansion (of soul, not body). The regular ebb and flow I used to cling to so desperately has been usurped by a refreshing spontaneity. Finally, I’m my own boss! And I really like my new boss.
I’ve been blessed to carry with me some of the strengths and skills I was best known for at work: writing, editing, research and people skills. They served me well back in the day, and they continue to be an asset. Since retiring, I’ve edited three books, had several articles published in international journals, and happily continue to pursue my own writing. I’ve been called on to do public speaking, help promote a couple of non-profits, and act as MC for a large community event. Not bad for an old broad!
Also, since retiring, I’ve observed some interesting gender differences. On my long walks I often encounter women my own age, strolling along the beach with a female friend, or having a relaxed coffee at Granville Island. I see them browsing in bookstores, searching the aisles of Michael’s, riding bikes companionably, or just meandering through Steveston. I also hear about all-female retiree book clubs and running groups.
But I rarely see the equivalent in the male retiree population. Are there really gender differences in retirement? There has always been a disparity between the chosen retirement ages of men and women. However, I’m sure that due to economic pressures, there are many more women working longer these days.
But still, from the looks of it, men appear to work longer than women – often well into their 70s. Is it because their identity is tied more strongly into “what they do” rather than “who they are” as individuals? In general, women have a plethora of job titles – mothers, housekeepers, career professionals, etc. – whereas men tend to be…how shall I put this…less multi-dimensional. I know I’m going to catch flak for that, but so be it.
Purely from observation, I rarely see men in their 60s sitting alone on a park bench reading or going for a stroll or a jog with a buddy. Maybe retired men occupy themselves differently, whereas women embrace the freedom for all to see. Call me a chauvinist. Go ahead. Just don’t shoot the messenger.
All I’m saying is if you can afford to do so, retire as early as possible. Life is short and there’s lots of playing to do.
Shelley Civkin, the retired “Face of Richmond,” was a Librarian & Communications Officer at Richmond Public Library for nearly 30 years, and author of a weekly book review column for 17 years.
