“What’s next for you?” I asked a young student. His answer included his chosen university location in the Midwest where his grandparents had attended. He had a good idea about his anticipated major. Having grown up in the Mountain West, the opportunity to move elsewhere excites him even though he’s aware the sun doesn’t shine as much there during the winter months!
This same question likely is being asked of others regardless their life’s age or stage. A friend’s husband is hoping for that new job as his “what’s next.” Although he’d thought about, and possibly explored other options, he had applied for a position in his current field. As a finalist, he hopes that new location will be his “next.”
Columnist Marty Coffin Evans
For others toying with the idea of a career change or even retirement, answering this question might be fraught with some level of anxiety. As potential retirees consider this answer, they may consider what earlier interests captivated them. Did wood working, painting, building projects, or playing an instrument appeal? Perhaps others have enrolled in foreign language courses, audited university or continuing education classes, or participated in parks and recreation programs.
We’ve heard the importance of staying active physically and mentally. Keeping busy with a purpose becomes valuable rather than just filling the hours and days. In talking with friends or family member who have successfully made significant life changes, finding or rekindling a passion has helped. Volunteering in one’s chosen field, or even a new one, provides its own reward. Compensation comes in different forms through the affirmation of having given our time and talent to others.
Answering this question may involve taking risks where we quickly learn our ability in a new field. If our inability shows, we may be saying, “I think I’d better stay with…!” Please join me August 19 for the “Age Well Conference” at Cheyenne Laramie County Community College. You’ll learn more in my keynote comments about others’ choices.
Martha (Marty) Coffin Evans, Ed.D. is a freelance writer with MACE Associates, LLC. She can be reached at itsmemartee@aol.com.