WHOSE BRIGHT IDEA WAS RETIREMENT?
August 6, 2020
WHOSE BRIGHT IDEA WAS RETIREMENT?
It was Otto von Bismarck’s.
In 1889, the German Chancellor looked to reduce the unemployment rate of young people. He paid citizens 70 and older to leave the workforce, and much of the world followed suit.
One place that didn’t: the island of Okinawa.
You can’t retire there, because retirement doesn’t exist. They don’t even have a word for it.
They have a better word:
Ikigai (pronounced icky guy).
Ikigai is your reason for getting out of bed in the morning.
Say your ikigai is teaching. If you’re no longer “working” as a teacher, how can your ikigai get you out of bed? Who can you teach now?
Anyone you want. The whole world is your classroom.
In line at the grocery store, you can teach patience. Bowling with a grandchild, you can teach focus. Hugging a friend in need, you can teach love.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Once your ikigai is clear, it will get you through any challenges that “retirement” may bring.
Assuming there is such a thing.
Learn about policies that help keep you living life your way. Call AMBA at 877-556-4578 or click to request a free Benefits Review.
Source: https://hbr.org/2016/04/why-retirement-is-a-flawed-concept
RECENT POSTS
An Ambulance Trip Is Stressful: With MASA, the Cost Doesn’t Have to Be
People who require an emergency ambulance trip frequently ask the same question upon receiving the bill: “Why was the
Read More
AMBA’s Essential Insights in Dental Health: Understanding Cavities
Have you ever experienced pain or noticed persistent sensitivity in your teeth? You might have a cavity. Cavities are common,
Read More
Keep “Looking” Your Best: The Unique Eye Health Challenges for Women Over 55
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women's contributions to American history and society. It’s
Read More
Leaving Your Home To A Loved One
If you’re like many people, your home represents more than just financial value. As the saying goes, "Home is where the
Read More