Retiring from work doesn’t mean retiring from leadership.

There are roles that require someone with your expertise, and you might be overlooking them!

Eastern civilization gives the world a blueprint on how to treat seniors. In India, for example, the elderly are considered the leaders of the family. As Indian culture expert, Achyut Bihani wrote on Slate.com, “Advice is always sought from them on a range of issues, from investment of family money to nitty-gritties of traditional wedding rituals and intra-family conflicts. And this is not just passive advice; their word is final in settling disputes.”

This seems to stand in stark contrast to how seniors are viewed in the U.S. 

But, it does stand to reason that if seniors are valued in this high regard in other countries, they should have that same value in our country. Seniors often lose sight of the fact that they have invaluable knowledge and experience to offer. For some, there is this invisible line at retirement that people cross and they suddenly feel like they lose their value to those still working or those that are active in the community. With that in mind, we thought it might be good to look at some ways that seniors can participate in leadership after retiring.

Consulting

You did the job for years; you certainly have some experience and ideas that could be beneficial to your former team. Many times, the company you worked for would love to have your advice, but they don’t want to bother you by asking for it. They feel like retirement is your time to relax and get away from the grind. The reality is that you can both benefit from an opportunity to collaborate. As this blog from Kiplinger explains, there are many hidden benefits for the retiree in consulting work.  

Volunteer organizations

The skillset that made you a leader in employment can often translate to success in non-related areas. Your logistics expertise can make you a perfect candidate for helping a local organization plan events, for example. There are organizations looking for someone like you right now, and your real-world experience makes you a valuable asset.  

Tutor in schools

Nothing makes a person feel young again like being around younger people. If you spent years as an accountant, there are probably some young people in your area that would benefit from your math skills. Even just reading to elementary students can make a huge impact. But, tutoring doesn’t have to be at such an elementary level. If you are an engineer by trade, for example, a local college might love to have you working with their young students that are looking to follow in your footsteps. You can benefit from the challenge and mental stimulation. Most of all, you can benefit emotionally and psychologically from being around a younger generation.

Participate in leadership roles at your living facility

Your time at a senior care facility is what you make of it. Senior care facilities are full of activity and life, and they need residents who are willing to help plan and organize. Get involved. Be vocal. Share your thoughts and ideas. Your reward can come from inspiring others in the facility to get more out of their experience as well.

At McGregor, we feel that leadership roles are tailor-made for seniors. We love to foster an environment that lets our residents find a new way to share their knowledge and experience with those around them and in the community. Find out more about how McGregor helps seniors become the best leaders they can be. Contact us today!

“