Retire from a high-pressure job and then “relax” at work.
A young person who is working at a company may jump to the conclusion that the older employees have no choice. However, that youngster is often wrong, according to the Napa Valley Register in “Consider a Retirement Job.” Many employees retire from bigger and far better jobs and then take seasonal work, just to stay active and earn a little extra cash.
Retirees with a side job have more success in retirement, and it’s not just because they have some extra spending money. They have regular interactions with people of all generations, and they have a structure to their days that makes most senior’s lives more productive and fulfilling.
When we think of retirement jobs, most people think of a big-box store greeter. That’s not a bad deal, but it’s far from the only option to retirees. Some people decide to drive for a company like Uber or Lyft, which gives them a great deal of control over their schedules.
Did you know that there are driving services that don’t require you to drive people? You can drive as a courier, run errands, or bring people food from restaurants, like DoorDash and Grubhub or, if you are fit enough for heavy bags, from grocery stores, like Peapod.
Other service jobs include house sitting or pet sitting. Online vacation rentals have led to an increase in home maintenance and housekeeping services needed.
Another option is to continue in your present job, but do it less, and on your own terms. For a teacher, that might mean substitute teaching. For professionals, becoming a consultant, often for the same people you worked with in the past, but on your terms, is also a part time option.
Retirement is when many people turn to their hobbies and make them into businesses. That could be crafts, painting, photography or woodworking. If you’ve always wanted to pursue a creative life, this is the time.
There are many different opportunities for retirement jobs. The important thing is to find something you love to do, that brings in some money and that works with your retirement lifestyle. Do what you love, and don’t settle for anything less.
An estate planning attorney can advise you on creating an estate plan that fits your unique circumstances and may include the option of remaining in the workforce.
Reference: Napa Valley Register (June 2, 2019) “Consider a Retirement Job.”