Early 60s, Suddenly Unemployed, and ‘Still Worthy’
Is it time to retire?
A woman in her early 60s has learned her job will end soon. She’s had no luck finding a new job but notes she’s “Still Worthy.” Should she retire? Advice columnist Eric Thomas weighs in.
Dear Eric:
I’m a woman in my early 60s. I was recently given notice that my job will end in a couple months due to the current federal financial situation (it was grant funded). I loved this work but because my husband can’t move or work remotely, I’m limited to jobs close to home or remote.
I’ve been applying but haven’t received any offers. I’m wondering whether I should just retire. I could take care of my health, pursue hobbies and be there for my parents and potential grandkids.
But I worry that I’ll get bored, and then when even older have even more trouble finding work. I’m sure I’m not the only one in this position. Any words of wisdom or solace?
– I’m Still Worthy
Dear Worthy:
I’m really glad you chose this sign-off for your letter because it’s true. You are worthy. And though the job market is difficult, and you may encounter ageism as you pursue a new position, your worth is not defined by what you do.
First, the truth: you may get bored. But you’ve been bored before. One of the challenges that retirees often talk about is having to re-learn who they are and how they relate to the world. This can be counter-intuitive: you’re not different the day after you retire, but there can sometimes be a challenge to programming your time meaningfully.
Give yourself grace and take it day-by-day without committing yourself to a version of your new life too quickly. You may find, for instance, that your calendar fills up and you don’t have time to be bored. Or you may find that activities and hobbies don’t scratch the itch and you want to get a part-time job in a new field or volunteer your time. It’s all possible.
Possibility is daunting, but possibility is also such a treasure. Think of this transition – whether to another job or to a retirement chapter – as akin to going off to college. You have the skills, but you will be learning a new terrain, so it may not always seem easy or comfortable. Talk to friends and loved ones who are already retired or have changed careers later in life; they’ll have tips and suggestions as you feel your way through.
R. Eric Thomas (he/him) is a national bestselling author, playwright, and screenwriter. His accomplishments include “Eric Reads the News,” a daily humor column covering pop culture and politics, serving as the interim Prudie for the advice column “Dear Prudence,” and “Congratulations, The Best Is Over.”
Send questions to eric@askingeric.com or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
©2025 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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