The end of May 2025 marked three years since I retired from Oracle and it’s been very different from what I expected!
I didn’t drift into boredom, as some predicted (and continue to ask).
I didn’t drive off into the sunset for months on end in my motorhome, as I once imagined.
Instead, I discovered a passion I never saw coming: running and the vibrant community around it.
At 62, I recently ran a lifetime personal best in the 5K. Not bad for someone with two knee operations who once thought he’d never run again!
Running has become more than exercise. It’s brought structure and purpose to my weeks, and connection to an incredible community, especially my coach (Katherine Hewitson), who’s helped me achieve faster times than I ever expected.
Here’s what I’ve learned: growth doesn’t stop when you retire!
The drive that fuelled your career? It’s still there, ready to power whatever you’re passionate about, whenever life gives you the space to pursue it.
Whether you’re approaching retirement, already there, or still years away, the capacity to discover new passions remains. In my case, the most unexpected pursuit has become the most meaningful.
Don’t let anyone tell you that retirement means slowing down.
It can mean accelerating toward new opportunities, new goals, and what matters most to you.
Your skills, wisdom, and determination don’t disappear with retirement or changing circumstances. They evolve and they find new outlets.
For those fortunate enough to have flexibility in their later years, use your health, energy, and capacity for joy intentionally and with purpose.
For those still navigating career demands or other responsibilities, the drive sustaining you now will fuel incredible discoveries when the time is right.
Every stage of life offers the possibility of surprise and of finding something that energizes you in ways you never expected.
Some of the most meaningful finish lines come long after we thought the (rat) race was over!
(Also published on LinkedIn)
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