Retire? But I'm Not Tired!

By Francine L. Huff
Learning & Life Columnist
November 6, 2006

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Not quite ready to give up working yet? Maybe you've decided to accept a retirement package after a long career but don't relish the thought of leaving the workforce and losing income. If so, you're not alone.

Back to School

It may have been many years since you were a student, but learning new skills can help you transition to a new job or to running a freelance business. Liberal arts degree programs in areas such as writing, art, and graphic design can open doors to more creative jobs, if you're so inclined. Online degree programs can allow you to take courses without giving up your current job--a particularly good option if you've got a pension coming.

Career Ideas

Writing and editing jobs are ideal for more creative types, and they often can be done from home with an Internet connection. If you have specialized knowledge in medicine, law, science, or computers, then you may find technical writing a good fit. In 2004, median annual wage was $43,890 for editors, $53,490 for technical writers, and $44,350 for writers and authors, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Giving Back

Using your expertise to teach and motivate others is a good way to give back. Because of turnover and retirements, school districts are constantly facing shortages of qualified teachers, especially for math and science. Public school teachers must be licensed, but many states have special licensing programs for people who already have bachelor's degrees, so you can take education courses while working in the classroom.

If you don't want to teach full time, consider working as a substitute teacher, which gives you more flexibility and fewer obligations outside the classroom. Also, keep in mind that most teachers don't teach during the summers, allowing time for seasonal jobs, travel, or other hobbies. Median annual earnings of teachers ranged from $41,400 to $45,920 in 2004, according to the BLS.

Retirement doesn't have to mean the end of your working days. Even if you don't go back to school or switch careers, you can always become an entrepreneur and offer consulting services in your area of expertise. This may work especially well if you already have an MBA or business degree. Whatever path you choose, consider it as just beginning a new and exciting phase of life.

Sources

About the Author
Francine L. Huff is a freelance journalist and the author of The 25-Day Financial Makeover: A Practical Guide for Women. She has appeared on a variety of TV and radio shows.

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