My Retirement Manifesto

It’s been one month, and I am like’n it. This retirement thing seems to work for me. I still use an alarm to wake up. I have a to do list. And I am still busy, just a different kind of busy.

But it is time to take it up a notch. Yes, I need a … Manifesto. A guiding document to show me the way forward.

Let’s go-

• I own my time:
  I will design my days with intention, not obligation. I don’t fill time I shape it. Retirement isn’t about doing nothing, it is about doing nothing I don’t want to do.

• I will protect my health as an asset:
  I will move daily. I will eat for benefit. I will sleep for recovery. I will not chase youth, I am investing in function and longevity.

• Relationships will take center stage:
  I will show up for family and friends, not out of duty but by desire. I understand that loneliness is a risk that I can actively mangage.

• I will live with purpose:
  I will wake with purpose, not pressure. My value comes from presence, wisdom and reliability. My contribution will be meaningful, not mandatory. I will make a diference.

• I will stay curious for life:
  I will explore new ideas without the need to master them. I will read, learn, and ask better questions. I will remain comfortable being a beginner.

• I will use my money as a tool , not a scorecard:
  I will spend on experiences, health, learning, family, convenience that improves life, and generosity that makes an impact.

• I meet aging with humor and adaptability:
  I don’t deny aging, nor will I surrender to it.

• I will try to leave things better than I found them:
  I aim to improve conversations, support people, and strengthen traditions. Small things matter.

• I am aware and respectful of time:
  I understand time is finite. I will savor moments, live with gratitude and not postpone joy. I will ask myself- What matters today.

My ideal retirement is not a finish line or permanent vacation. It is simply the next chapter that I get to write on my own terms.

Enjoy your day,

Just a little extra-

Manifesto- a written declaration of intentions, motives or views.
The word comes from the Latin word manifestus meaning clear or conspicuous.
Yep, this was what I was going for when thinking about my plan for retirement.

I borrowed the idea from my friend Tom. Tom and I worked together at PepsiCo many years ago.
Tom is now living his manifesto in Chicago, enjoying his family and his new business called
Aura Candle Bar selling the finest in fragranced candles. Please check it out-

www.auracandlebar.com

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References

Cole, Garry. February 2024. Are We Old Yet? (Yes, I used my book as a reference)