"When I pictured retirement, I imagined practicing piano, writing, rehearsing with my music group, and visiting family. At first, I loved the freedom - no appointments, alarms, or deadlines - but soon, the hours felt aimless. Every day seemed like a good day to procrastinate. I'd play piano for a few minutes, but never learned an entire piece. Or, I'd type a few sentences and attend music rehearsals, but I'd never finish an essay or schedule a performance."
"I discovered I needed a routine I realized my free time needed structure, so I started scheduling my days: writing for two hours, then practicing piano before lifting weights and walking. With each new commitment came new friends. I approached a trumpeter and clarinetist who live in my neighborhood (musicians I'd only waved to before), and we formed an ensemble. Now, we pract"
The narrator watched a father who worked until age 78 and kept his print shop active instead of retiring. After retiring, the narrator expected leisurely days of music and writing but found freedom quickly turned aimless and led to procrastination. Short, unfocused practice and writing produced few completed works and removed the satisfaction of ticking off tasks and collaborating with colleagues. The narrator imposed a disciplined daily schedule of writing, piano practice, exercise, and walks, which generated new social connections and led to forming a local ensemble. Regular commitments restored productivity, social engagement, and renewed purpose.
Read at Business Insider
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