Winding Down a Career: Few Opportunities, Lack of "Mattering"

In capitalistic America the world of aging has bifurcated: There are those of us still finding purpose through work and "mattering." And there are those described in The Wall Street Journal as lost after their careers wind down and the opportunities for meaning they anticipated don't happen. That latter group, research shows, can tumble into psychological depression:

"A 2020 meta-analysis published in the journal Healthcare, drawing on data from over 3,000 retirees, found that nearly a third experienced depressive symptoms, with higher rates among those pushed into retirement by illness, layoffs or mandatory exits."

Other studies show they are apt to even die earlier than the aging worker bees and entrepreneurs over-65. No wonder after their cardiac events JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon and Paul, Weiss chair Brad Karp opted to stay with their leadership positions. The demands of those jobs could be keeping them alive. 

Another behavior pattern I have noticed both as a coach and an Everywoman is the tension between the two cultures. 

Those still earning income from their labor can be impatient with the chatter or the very presence of the fully retired. This is capitalism and if we intend to keep being productive we need to obsessively look for the edge. We're not going to find it among those who seem adrift. In a social group last Thursday a retiree went on and on about their spiritual growth. I looked at the clock. I decided to dump that weekly get-together from my life. 

Those who can't find opportunities for mattering - and there are fewer and fewer part-time jobs and gigs - can turn downright hostile. I'm not Sigmund Freud but I detect a resentment of the money we're still bringing in and the attention we still receive in society. 

A solution? 

In intuitive coaching I guide the retired back to mattering by setting themselves up as solopreneurs. That could happen by turning a hobby such as knitting or creating pottery into a small business. The crafts are back. It's exciting to build a market, such as being a regular at fairs and special events. You bet, you're back in the loop.

Or, just go out there and figure out where's there a gap in what people need/want and fill it. One client forced off his career path probably because of age noticed that in neighborhoods with the elderly there was a deficit of friendly, patient and affordable handyman services. They started out giving "free samples." The referrals soon came. 

Four years ago I perceived that, as a content-provider, I was mattering less. Overdue was exiting that downer force field. I put together a boutique which transformed a sideline into what brought in lots more income - and respect.

Takeaway: Get it that the world doesn't care that you don't feel like that you matter. It's up to you to develop purpose - and a platform for being taken seriously again.

Success is a mental game. Failure comes from being done in by the “committee” in your head.

Together, we reprogram your thinking. Then we change your story. And, unleash success.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, becoming a solopreneur and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk.

Don’t give up before the miracle.

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