I thought it was very clever to retire on February 29. It meant I only had to celebrate the actual day once every four years. Turns out I have time and reason to remember. I am amazed at how fast the year went and for the most part am feeling good about transition to life without a pre-set daily schedule. I have not had a day that I wished I was back in the banking industry. I find that I do miss my co-workers and my customers – luckily many of them have stayed in touch. So I wanted to share what I have learned and provide some helpful advice or observations for those of you who will retire soon or feel like you are failing today.
Stay busy doing things that you enjoy and are meaningful to you. I would not trade the many hours I have spent with my grandson–Hank is inspirational. Learn how to say no. I have dramatically improved my focus in a few areas and have said no to anything that did not fit my passion. Accepting the Governor’s offer to serve on the higher education task force is a part of the work I have supported at the Idaho Business for Education group for years. Fund raising for the Salvation Army and Greater Boise Metro Chamber fits my philanthropic and community improvement interests. I am still involved with the BOTC foundation, Delta Dental, United Heritage and Governor Andrus’s Public Policy Board. Now that I write this down-my final aha moment is- how did I fit all this in when I worked full time? I enjoy being engaged in life and staying busy keeps me out of the bar during the day.
Thinking ahead, I was impressed with this quote from Kong Qui, better known as Confucius. Born in 551 BC in China, his teachings were focused on creating ethical models of family and public interaction, and setting educational standards. Confucius lived in difficult times and recognized his obligation to reinforce social values of compassion and tradition. Reading more about him is recommended. This seemed particularly meaningful today. Confucius’s political beliefs were based on self discipline. He believed a leader needed to execute self discipline to remain humble and treat his followers with compassion. His “ren” philosophy lead him to quote the Golden Rule “what you do not wish for yourself, do not do to others.” Some ideas extend beyond time.
If your plan is for 1 year,
Plant rice
If your plan is for 10 years,
Plant trees
If your plan is for 100 years
Educate children.
Confucius
Hope you will vote for the Boise School Bond, money well spent on our future.
Enjoy the sun and spring like temperatures this week. Mike