Why I'm Retiring - And Relaunching

Why I’m Retiring—and Relaunching

When I first started my career, I had two goals in the back of my mind: retire at 55 and someday start my own business. At the time, 55 felt far away—almost abstract. And owning a business? That felt like something you put on a dream board, not a resume.

Fast forward to today: I’m a little over 55, and retirement is about seven months away. It’s real now. The countdown has begun—but not in the way most people assume.

When I tell people I’m retiring soon, the most common reactions are:
“You must be counting the days!”
“Are you planning to work again… or just have fun?”

Here’s the truth: I’m not “just retiring.” I’m relaunching.

The Myth of the Finish Line

For years, we’ve been told that retirement is the finish line. That once we reach a certain age, we stop working, relax, and fade into a quieter life. And for some, that’s exactly the right path. But for many of us—especially those with energy, experience, and a passion for staying engaged—retirement doesn’t feel like an ending. It feels like a new beginning.

That’s where I am right now. I’m preparing to step away from the traditional full-time career I’ve known for decades, but I’m not walking away from purpose, productivity, or income. I’m choosing to shift. To explore. To build something new.

Why the “Relaunch” Matters

Relaunching, for me, means pursuing the business I’ve dreamed about for years. It means having the flexibility to work in ways that energize me. It means continuing to earn, but with more freedom and meaning woven into each day.

It also means embracing uncertainty. Let’s be honest—there’s no neat roadmap for this stage of life. We’ve built entire careers, raised families, navigated challenges. And now, we get to ask: What do I want next?

That question is powerful—and maybe a little intimidating. But it’s also exciting. I don’t have all the answers, but I’ve decided to share the journey as I live it.

What You’ll Find Here

Retire & Relaunch is a space for people like me—and maybe like you. People who are approaching retirement but aren’t ready to “slow down.” People who want to stay sharp, connected, and creatively engaged. People who still want to earn income, but want to do it differently this time.

I’ll be sharing everything I learn along the way:

• What it looks like to prepare emotionally and financially

• Ideas for staying productive and inspired

• How to turn skills and experience into income

• Honest reflections on what’s working—and what’s not

If you’re curious about what your next chapter could look like, I invite you to walk this road with me. Whether retirement is months away or already in your rearview mirror, it’s never too late to relaunch.

Let’s do this—together.