If you want to continue working in some capacity after you retire, you’ll have to do some planning. Start by asking yourself four questions:
- How much money do I need to earn? If a certain income is mandatory, this criterion needs to come first and will influence your other decisions.
- How much location independence do I want? If you have visions of balancing some work with a lot of travel, or if you’d like to spend winters in sunny climes, think carefully about how to cultivate a location-independent second act, such as a seasonal or internet-enabled job.
- How much change am I seeking? If you’d simply like to downshift in your current career, ask your manager about transitioning into a consultant role. A bolder change will require additional groundwork.
- How can I start test-driving my future career now? Experiment with some small side projects while you have the security of your regular income.
Adapted from "Planning Your Post-Retirement Career," by Dorie Clark
