I remember it like it was yesterday.
My first week at my first real job, just a few weeks after graduating from UConn, 35 years ago.
An assigned office… an official eMail address… providing banking info for my first paycheck… and yes, picking 401K options.
From the day we start working, we are told to start planning for retirement. That was the ultimate goal. Work hard, then relax.
Well, I’m there…and guess what… the last thing I want to do is stop working.
In fact, I’m probably more valuable now than ever. I know the B2B marketing playbook inside and out. I’ve been part of 6 acquisitions, two to Oracle. I’ve raised over $50 million for companies. I worked for 6 amazing CEOs. I’ve hired over 1000 people. I’ve headed up marketing for 5 companies. I’ve been a fractional CMO for over 10 others. And I’m not done.
I’m not alone.
I know of so many people in their 50’s, 60s and yes, 70s, that have so much to give and yet most of the business world writes them off. They’re too old. Probably not willing to work hard. Probably thinking about their next cruise.
Win/Win for Companies and Older Workers
I’m here to tell you that’s not the case. Agism is real. But that’s not my point. And I have several.
Point #1: Companies are missing a huge opportunity. There are some amazing talented older people they should be tapping to help them. They’ve got a wealth of experience, the right energy and are affordable.
Point #2: People are missing out on life by overly preparing for retirement. I miss watching my kids playing sports. Or taking those family vacations. Or playing pick up hoop. I’m so glad I did all that and did not overwork or pinch pennies for retirement.
Point #3: Working could be rewarding late in life. For me, it is. I enjoy using my knowledge and experience to help companies grow. To help young professionals thrive. To create new solutions and new companies. And I’m so much better at it now.
Point #4: You’ll be healthier, mentally and physically, if you continue to work. Some of the secrets to living a long healthy life is having purpose and keeping your mind active. Work is the perfect solution for that.
Net/net: I’m not retiring, probably ever.
Later this year I’m launching two new startups, GoodLiife LLC and Mementix LLC. I’m CEO for both. I’m also a fractional CMO for 2 companies today and will probably take on a 3rd. I wake up every morning, excited to learn more, ready to meet new people and looking forward to applying some new ideas to my work.
I’ll close with this… If you’re still young, under 60, haha… be sure to enjoy life. Spend time with your family and friends. Love your partner. Take care of your body. Do fun things. Live a balanced life. Or just relax sometimes. You don’t have to wait until retirement.
We’ve got it all wrong… the ultimate goal is not retirement… it’s to design and create the life we want NOW.