The Phenomenon of Unretiring: A Second Act in the Workforce
The traditional concept of retirement, a final departure from the working world, is being challenged by a growing trend of "unretirement." Increasing numbers of individuals are discovering that stepping away from their careers doesn’t necessarily equate to a fulfilling life. Driven by a variety of factors, from financial necessity to the pursuit of purpose and social engagement, these unretirees are returning to the workforce, often in unexpected and rewarding ways. Gerry Galewski, a former computer technology professional, exemplifies this phenomenon. After a brief six-month retirement, he found himself restless and sought a part-time position at a local supermarket. This initial foray back into the working world paved the way for consulting projects and eventually led to a part-time role as a pharmacy technician. Galewski’s story illustrates how unretirement can be driven not just by financial need, but also by a desire to contribute and stay mentally active.
The surge in unretirements is partly attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted many to retire earlier than anticipated. However, as the world adapted to the new normal, a significant number of these "COVID-19 retirees" reconsidered their decision and re-entered the workforce. Their motivations varied, ranging from realizing the inadequacy of their retirement savings to a yearning for mental stimulation and social interaction. Surveys reveal that while financial considerations play a significant role, a comparable number of unretirees are driven by the desire for social and emotional fulfillment, underscoring the non-monetary benefits of work. This trend showcases the multifaceted nature of unretirement, highlighting the complex interplay of financial security, intellectual engagement, and social connection.
Unretiring offers a range of benefits beyond financial stability. For many, returning to work provides a much-needed structure and purpose, combating the boredom and sense of underutilization that can accompany retirement. Engaging in work-related activities can sharpen cognitive skills, enhance social connections, and provide a sense of accomplishment. Galewski, for instance, credits his pharmacy work with improving his short-term memory and providing daily intellectual and social stimulation. The physical activity involved in his job also contributes to his overall well-being. These examples demonstrate how unretirement can be a holistic experience, positively affecting various aspects of an individual’s life.
Unretiring doesn’t always mean returning to the same field. Many individuals explore entirely new career paths, embracing opportunities they may never have considered during their initial working years. Wendy Gibson Foster’s journey exemplifies this shift. After retiring from a corporate finance career, she transitioned to Americorps and later co-founded a non-profit, ultimately landing a role in operations and HR for an engineering firm. This career pivot reflects a common desire among unretirees to align their work with their values and pursue meaningful endeavors. It demonstrates the potential for reinvention and personal growth that unretirement can offer.
The transition to retirement can be a period of adjustment, and not everyone thrives in a life devoid of structured work. Experts advise taking time to adapt to the new rhythm of retirement before making significant career changes. This period of reflection allows individuals to explore their interests, identify their values, and determine what truly brings them joy. Sara Ellis Conant, a retirement coach, encourages her clients to undertake a thorough self-assessment, reflecting on their life experiences and identifying patterns of fulfillment. This introspection can help individuals discover new passions and pave the way for a meaningful unretirement experience.
Unretiring is a testament to the evolving nature of work and retirement. It highlights the importance of purpose, social connection, and continuous learning throughout life. While financial security remains a crucial factor, the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment is equally significant in driving the unretirement trend. As individuals increasingly seek to remain engaged and productive, unretirement offers a compelling path to a fulfilling and enriching second act in the workforce. This phenomenon challenges traditional notions of retirement and presents a more dynamic and personalized approach to this stage of life.
