Self-Starters Don't Stop in Retirement
By Marguerite Perfett, Kansas Senior Press Service
A project of the KU Center on Aging
Innate self-starter qualities don’t fail or dim as the office door closes and retirement begins. Actually for self-starters retirement is a time to fulfill dreams and ideas quietly nourished for years. What these acquaintances of mine are doing in retirement might help you break out of the box—might motivate you not to accept the colorless status quo.
Jean
Married early, Jean soon became involved in family responsibilities. A part-time job became a full-time career as her children grew up. She put her personal life on hold. When appropriate—children were grown and on their own—Jean separated from her husband, but retained her job. Retirement came, and Jean was ready. With a single friend, she began to travel. They went down to the floor of the Grand Canyon on donkeys and sailed in a hot air balloon at an air show. Jean bought a house and perfected latent culinary skills. Currently enrolled in university classes, Jean has changed herself from housewife into a real “personality!”
Harold
Harold’s last job was working in the nursing unit of a retirement facility. He became aware that activity seemed to keep residents’ minds stimulated. When a local little theatre group presented an enjoyable skit at the facility, Harold was momentarily bitten by the acting bug—but there was no time. Soon after retirement, he saw a notice inviting city residents to try out for a community theatre musical production. Acting on the earlier impulse, he auditioned and was chosen for a part suitable for his age. Since then, Harold has appeared in many productions and has become a local audience favorite.
Maxine
When Maxine began volunteering in a special education classroom, she had no idea her journalism background would provide the basis for a new writing experience. One of her students is especially talented in humorous caricature. Together they are putting together a book for children that combines family values with adventure. Maxine is hoping to provide encouragement for others in the class in ways of interest to them. She is establishing a closeness with these special education students that surprises her.
Beth
Somewhat physically hampered, Beth, a long-time widow, found investing in a computer a good way to exercise her interest in world and local news. She also discovered genealogical searching and found she was eligible for membership in a well-known women’s patriotic and benevolent organization, which she joined. Via e-mail she “talks” with far-away children and keeps them updated on the well-being of her mother (their grandmother). Beth was also elated to make an electronic connection with a friend with whom she once had had a “significant other” relationship. They are now corresponding regularly. Beth also helps out friends when they have a question she and her computer can answer.
Pat continues an involvement in community service; Elaine demonstrates her tatting skills at craft shows; Ina joined a quilting group after she completed lessons; Richard builds model railroad cars for his track setup; Jim now has time for a profitable wood carving hobby.
Jump start your own life with ideas from your senior center, Area Agency on Aging, Retired Senior Volunteer Program, school superintendent’s office, travel agency or college registrar.
Human Services & Aging
11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite #1300
Olathe, KS 66061-7056
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