In 2023, my dad shared exciting news: he was switching to a four-day workweek. After years as an insurance underwriter, he was ready to ease into retirement. We joked about him being “older,” even though he was just in his 50s. He talked about relaxing and focusing on golf, but that plan took a tragic turn a year later when he was diagnosed with cancer.
His illness brought us closer. Despite being fit and active, my dad went from competing in triathlons to hospice care within weeks. On June 19, 2024, he passed away at just 56 years old. Those days with him became lessons that shape my thoughts on life and retirement.
Live as if Tomorrow Isn’t Guaranteed
This might sound grim, but it’s a reality check. None of us know what tomorrow holds. Understanding this can push us to take care of practical matters, like updating wills and considering things like powers of attorney.
Dad traveled the world and tried new sports because he believed in seizing the moment. His zest for life taught me that waiting for retirement to enjoy life might be a mistake. I’m preparing for a trip to New Zealand, his last grand adventure, and it reminds me to live fully today.
Expert opinion backs this up. A study by the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association found that around 70% of people believe they won’t have the dreams they hold for retirement. This mindset can trap us in a cycle of deferred living. I learned that every day counts, shaping how I view my journey.
Create Freedom Through Choices
Living like you’ll never reach retirement can be financially risky. If I spent everything now, I wouldn’t have anything later. Instead, I balance saving with enjoying life.
Dad emphasized the importance of education and hard work. This lesson pushed me to pursue law, giving me the skills to adapt my career later. When he passed, my savings allowed me to take a step back and reflect on my life during that challenging time.
Interestingly, a recent report from the Employee Benefit Research Institute showed 56% of Americans feel unprepared for retirement, often because of debt. I didn’t want to be a part of that statistic. The choices I made for my career created a safety net that affected how I handled loss.
Seek Adventure Everywhere
Dad had a unique approach to life. He never took things too seriously, which led to his success and happiness. This perspective included viewing challenges as adventures. Near the end of his life, he told me, “Life is just one adventure after another.”
That idea has stayed with me. It encourages me to find joy and growth even in the darkest times, like when grief hits hard.
My Shifting Mindset
Losing my dad transformed how I see life and retirement. It pushed me to pursue my true passions without waiting. Instead of deferring dreams, I’m actively setting goals that allow for a fulfilling life, whether or not retirement ever happens.
Now, I focus on what will make me happy in the long run, keeping the dream of retirement less urgent. This mindset is about living fully right now while planning for a rewarding future.
