How to Transition Out of the Full-time Workforce
How to Transition Out of the Full-time Workforce

Are you thinking of retiring but not sure you want to quit working altogether? While some people dream of retirement solely as a time for relaxation, others have a hybrid lifestyle in mind, which includes some work and some play.  

If you’re considering a hybrid or phased retirement solution, you’re not alone. Many people are looking at “flex-tiring” rather than an all-or-nothing next step. According to the American Advisors Group, “Nearly half of seniors (46%) said they plan on working part-time or picking up a side job during retirement.” This could include different combinations of work, exploring passion projects, volunteering, learning or teaching. A side benefit to keep in mind: A growing body of evidence suggests that living with purpose may help you extend your life.

The question is — how do you make it happen? As a career coach for more than 20 years, here are a few of my tips on how to transition out of the full-time workforce and find after-work-life balance.

Transitioning Out of Full-Time Work

Moving to part-time work hours in your current job could offer time for relaxation and other pursuits while still keeping current in your work life and earning some pay. Can you continue working for your current employer but with a reduced schedule or fewer hours?

USA Today reports more employers are considering flex-time and part-time hours. Some companies are starting to recognize that older workers have valuable experience and mentoring skills to offer newer, younger staff and are open to requests for flex-tirement.

While some employers may not have an established plan or policy for flexible retirement plans, it’s worth discussing. When I wanted to move from full-time to part-time, my organization stated they don’t pay benefits for people under 40 hours. I asked if it was a written policy and learned it wasn’t — they simply never thought of the idea. They wanted to keep me, so they decided to pro-rate my benefits, including sick time and vacation accruals, and continue my 401(k) contributions.

Some people miss the structure work provides when they retire completely. Working part-time can offer grounding so you can fit in recreational activities around your work hours. Other options include freelancing, consulting, doing temp work to sample other industries and fields, or starting your own business alone or with a partner.

Pursuing Your Passions

Whether you continue working in your current field in some capacity or not, there are several ways you can start spending time pursuing dreams outside of work. What about that book you’ve always wanted to write? Or teaching a hobby you’ve mastered?

Continuing your education by either taking classes formally to learn a new skill or recreationally by signing up for a sport, music or art program is another way you can inject new passion into your days. Look into courses and certificates at UW Professional & Continuing Education, consider groups like the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the UW or Lifetime Learning Center, join a club at a local college, community center or gym, or Google your favorite pastime and discover what’s available.

Volunteering Your Time

Using the skills you’ve honed for decades to support others is another option. Alene Moris, local scholar, author and sage who started the Women’s Center at the University of Washington believed that using your skills to give back in the form of volunteering, mentoring or teaching was a meaningful way to use your passion to enliven others. Any kind of volunteering is valuable to you and the recipients of your time. Contact your local nonprofit charity or go to Volunteer Match to explore the possibilities.

Retirement Takes Planning

When asked, many retirees report they wish they’d spent more time planning their days before they left the workforce. Some people think they will love not clocking in to work but forget to plan other ways to fill their time. They miss their colleagues who are still working; they have a few too many hours to fill and can feel rudderless.

Before you retire, spend some time planning for beyond the first six months. Many people say, “I have so many projects at home!” Or “We have so many travel plans!” However, after more than a year, it wouldn’t be unusual if you need something new to inspire you or spark your imagination. Begin pursuing your passions, whether it’s through networking, taking classes or dabbling in the hobbies themselves.

More of us will reach the maximum lifespan for humans than ever before in history. Having weekly plans provides us with structure, learning, time for giving and socialization. And social interaction is the number one way to live longer.


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Author Dori Gillam

Dori Gillam

Guest writer Dori Gillam has been a career coach for over twenty years. As a writer and speaker, she focuses on ageism, creative aging, resilience and finding soul-filling work. She has worked for Right Management and her clients have included Nike, Chase Bank and Weyerhaeuser. She is a frequent contributor to 3rd Act Magazine. 

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