So-Called Retirement

It was in 1889, a German government official, Otto von Bismarck who conceived the concept of retirement, which began the idea for those that were no longer able to work due to disability or health issues, thus, the concept was adopted by the rest of society. From an etymologically standpoint, the word retirement derives from the French lexicon in the 16th century. The term comes from a military sense that carries the idea to (withdraw to a place of security or isolation).

In this week's segment of the show, a retired former diplomat shared his thoughts of retirement in terms of transitioning into another life activity for the sake of physical and emotional longevity.

I always find it interesting to look at other cultures that by all evidence are doing something that benefits them in the long term, and an obvious culture are the folks that live in Okinawa located in the East China Sea.

A centenarian study found both genders in Okinawa have a life span average of seven years longer than their western counterpart, and addition to that, they enjoy the longest disability-free life anywhere in the world.

With the risk of becoming redundant, allow me to say that it begins with their dietary custom where the Okinawans enjoy their food from smaller plates, they stop and desist from eating when they are 80% full. And they have a wonderful cultural arrangement wherein they are very communal by associating with those of the same age to slowly grow old together according to researchers from National Geographic.

In this country when we think in terms of retirement, we immediately think of green golf courses, traveling and the proverbial rocking chair, do you know what Okinyans call retirement? Surprisingly, they do not have a word for it, they have an entirely unique perspective of life, in fact, they do not even have a word that remotely describes the concept of retirement.

As an alternative, this healthy society in this part of the world has a philosophy referred to as (ikigai) pronounce like (icky guy), meaning to “the reason you wake up in the morning,” it is what motivates you every day.

To circle around to their dietary custom compared to the western hemisphere, did you know that when the fast-food hamburger was introduced in the 1950s, it was no bigger than the (happy meal)? We are eating too much, and it is reflected in our lack of longevity and the quality of life due to health-related issues. Hence, the quality of retirement is diminishing, however, as an eternal optimist, I must say that our dietary habits can be turned around.

So, my question to you, "what gets you up in the morning?"

As I asked this question, it triggered thoughts of my dad, and to what got him up in the morning. Without question it was his work ethic as farmer and rancher. My dad passed away in his mid-80s, and at the time he was managing close to 2000 acres of farmland and in addition to that, he was managing close to 900 head of cattle. The reason for me to speak of my dad is not to venerate him but to emphasize the point that we can remain active well into so-called retirement.

My guest, also in his mid-80s, spoke of the problem of identity loss that many retirees experience which is conducive to losing the luster of life that brings on depression and curtails longevity.

Having said that, what is the answer?

The answer is found in what interests you or what you consider a priority and a boredom buster. Many will attest to the fact that even the best retirement hobbies can get old and boring. To avoid becoming a pool of water that is mirky and stagnant, keep your mind active and engaged with a social calendar that will encourage you to stay active with an element of diversity.

If there were ever a time for you to experience and explore the world, what better time than your retirement years? Whatever your profession, you could incorporate those years of skills in helping those in disaster areas or volunteer work in your local community. There is nothing like it, when you give of yourself to others, there is nobility in doing so.

I know some that have taken up bird watching, cooking, travel, and gardening to mention a few activities. Of course, there is nothing wrong with those types of activities, however, research indicates that 95 percent of retirees prefer memorable experiences with others over spending money on hobbies, we are gregarious creatures. When considering the social environment today, it is so polarized to say the least and so divided, and there is a desperate need for mentors to help families and individuals to apply the principles that have served you well over the years.

People come and go, however, memories are long lasting and are generational, so be available to visit with family members and it will not hurt to babysit the grandkids at any opportunity you get, you will be building a legacy.

Evidence clearly shows that assisting others contributes to our own cognitive health and our physical well-being. For instance, it mitigates stress which reflects itself in your improved mood, in self-regard or esteem and joy in life despite world conditions. In short, helping others is helping yourself and there is a plethora of so many things we can do to help others as part of our way of life. The best and the simpler things in life are free and are the most rewarding!!!