More rookie retirees share their stories

As part of my ongoing series on transitioning into retirement, I’ve been exploring what this big life change looks and feels like from different angles.

Retirement is rarely a one-size-fits-all experience — and that’s exactly what makes it so fascinating.

In this next instalment of the ‘Other Voices’ thread, I’m sharing two new interviews with people who’ve stepped away from full-time work and are navigating what comes next — whether that’s rediscovering purpose, managing unexpected challenges, or simply learning how to slow down.

These stories offer different perspectives, but all carry that same thread of curiosity, courage, and redefinition.

I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I’ve enjoyed gathering them.

ROOKIE RETIREE INTERVIEWS

Exploring life after work — real voices, real stories.

Meet Amanda…

‘FINDING BALANCE AFTER A FULL ON CAREER’

1. How long have you been retired?

Exactly two years this month! I took early retirement at 55.

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2. What led you to retire when you did? Was it all part of the plan, or more of a plot twist?

I’d always loved my work — it was incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. I worked full-time in education for 32 years, with just a short five-month break for maternity leave. I had always assumed I’d retire at 60, but I started to feel the impact my job was having on my wellbeing and quality of life.

I watched colleagues in similar roles step away due to stress or health issues, and I didn’t want to end a career I loved in that way. Despite working with a fantastic team, the workload was relentless. My head was always full of work — it wasn’t the kind of job you could just leave at the door.

A couple of minor health issues prompted me to step back and reassess. I knew I was leaving things in a strong place for my successor, and I could walk away proud of what I’d contributed.

About a year before I retired, I began working with a coach — someone completely outside my profession — who helped me focus on the person I was beyond my job title. She nudged me far outside my comfort zone and helped me rediscover what I truly valued. Slowly, I began to feel excited about what a different kind of life could look like.

It was never going to be a “traditional retirement” — I still had energy and ambition. But I knew it was time for something new. It wasn’t an easy decision — lots of “what ifs” — but the day I handed in my notice, I felt certain it was the right time.

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3. Before you took the plunge, what did you think retirement would be like?

Honestly? I wasn’t sure! I still find the word “retired” a bit strange and I don’t think of myself as a typical retiree.

The year leading up to it was full of reflection. I spent a lot of time thinking about what I actually wanted from life — and looking at other roles and opportunities. My coach, friends, and family were all both supportive and gently challenging.

At the heart of it, I just wanted more time. Time to be with the people I care about. Time to eat well, exercise more, and appreciate the small things. I wanted time to smell the roses!

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4. So, what’s retirement actually like now?

I absolutely love my new life. I’ve found a really satisfying balance between work, play, rest, and purpose.

I now work as a self-employed educational consultant, supporting school leaders through coaching and national qualifications. My work portfolio has built up really quickly and I’ve now reached a great work/life balance. It’s meaningful work, and I love that I can give back to a profession that gave me so much.

I’m also a school governor, which keeps me connected to what’s changing in education. My work is flexible and remote — which is a huge bonus, as my daughter now lives in the U.S. I’ve recently started helping with the business she co-founded, and it’s been such a joy to be involved and support her in that way.

Outside of work, I’ve taken on two allotments. I’m meeting lots of new people and am growing vegetables for the first time — always a learner! I cycle, go to the gym, read more fiction and listen to podcasts. I’ve rediscovered the joy of just being.

The freedom and choice I have now is something I really appreciate.

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5. What’s been the best — and the trickiest — part of retirement so far?

The best part? Weekends. I used to spend them mentally and physically prepping for the week ahead. Now, they’re genuinely free time — I can enjoy them with the people I love.

I also treasure the odd day when there’s absolutely nothing on the calendar — no plans, no “to do” list. Bliss.

The most challenging part was the first winter — January and February felt a bit long. Even though I didn’t miss the early starts or the icy commutes, I found it harder to stay busy. I’m more aware of that now and am planning ahead — I plan to travel East and maybe pick up a new indoor hobby. And there’s a half-drafted book waiting for me….

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6. What’s surprised you the most about retiring?

I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how much work has come my way — without me even chasing it. I’ve worked hard and built a reputation, and new opportunities have naturally followed.

It’s also been lovely to realise how much knowledge and experience I have — and how valuable that still is. Supporting other leaders has been deeply rewarding.

And honestly? I’m surprised at how quickly the last two years have gone. I have no regrets!

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7. Has retirement changed the way you see yourself, your time, or your purpose?

There’s a quote I love from Dr Owen O’Kane about living meaningfully. He talks about balancing work, volunteering, connection, recreation, and purpose — and that’s what I try to weave into my life now.

I feel good giving time to the people I love, and I feel useful supporting others in education. I feel well — physically, emotionally — and grateful.

No regrets at all.

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8. Looking back, is there anything you wish you’d done differently to prepare for retirement?

No — I wouldn’t change a thing.

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9. Finally, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who’s nearing retirement?

It’s such a personal decision — there’s no one-size-fits-all.

But if I had to say one thing: treat it as a beginning, not an ending. Retirement is an incredible opportunity to explore who you are beyond your job title, and what else the world has to offer you.

We’re still in the driving seat — so take the wheel, get out there, and enjoy the journey.

Meet Gaynor….

‘FINDING PURPOSE BEYOND THE TITLE’

1. How long have you been retired?

Just over six months now — although I still struggle to say the word “retired” out loud!

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2. What led you to retire when you did? Was it all part of the plan, or more of a plot twist?

It actually came about three years earlier than I’d originally planned. There was a reorganisation at the company I’d worked at for 28 years, and an opportunity for early retirement came up. Financially, it made sense — so I took it.

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3. What did you imagine retirement would be like before it actually happened?

I imagined I’d become a full-time stay-at-home parent. My wife still works, and we have a teenage son, so I thought I’d throw myself into domestic life and be more available — for them and for our dog! I pictured long dog walks, a more organised home, and an escape from always running at 120mph.

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4. So, what does retirement really look like for you now?

Right after finishing work, I turned my attention to my health. I’d been dealing with joint issues I had chalked up to menopause — but it turned out to be hypermobility that had gone undiagnosed. It wasn’t just about being “a bit flexible”; it needed real attention.

So now, my week is shaped by things that support my body and my family. I take unrushed dog walks (which I love), do 1:1 Pilates sessions to build strength, and focus on creating a calm, healthy home environment — which includes more time for planning and cooking nutritious meals. I’ve also been reaching out to friends — for walks, lunches, and staying socially connected.

I had originally pictured doing more hill walking and strenuous hikes, but I’ve had to start smaller. That was mentally tough to accept at first, but I feel incredibly grateful for the time and space to work on it. It simply wouldn’t have been possible if I were still working full-time.

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5. What’s been the best part of retirement so far? And what’s been the most challenging?

The Best Part? – The space to get everything done without rushing. No longer constantly feeling like I’m on the back foot.

The Most Challenging? – Coming to terms with not being as physically able as I wanted to be — and learning to approach that with compassion rather than frustration.

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6. What’s surprised you the most about life after full-time work?

Two things. First, I actually missed work — and I really wasn’t expecting that. I missed my team and the job itself. I realised that was a good sign, though — it meant my work had meaning and that I hadn’t just been trudging through.

Second, people’s reactions. Some were genuinely happy for me — “Good for you, you’ve earned it!” Others were clearly uncomfortable with the idea that I was retired at 56 — a mix of horror, envy, and confusion. That was surprising.

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7. Has retirement changed how you see yourself or your sense of purpose?

Yes, and quite profoundly. At first, I felt a bit invisible — a bit unimportant. I hadn’t realised how much of my identity was tied up in what I did and who I worked for. There was a kind of pride in saying what I did for a living, and without that, I felt a little lost.

But over time, that identity softened. I’ve started to feel new sparks of purpose — little glimmers of what might be next. You can’t rush that process, but it’s a lovely feeling when it starts to unfold.

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8. Looking back, is there anything you wish you’d done differently to prepare for retirement?

I wish I’d taken better care of my physical health and fitness before retiring. I would have loved to “hit the ground running,” but life was so full beforehand, and it was easy to ignore symptoms. I got very good at just pushing through. So yes — I wish I’d made more space for my own wellbeing earlier.

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9. And finally, what advice would you give to someone standing on the edge of retirement?

Let yourself feel what you feel. Not everyone skips into retirement like it’s the best thing ever. Sometimes there’s grief, sometimes relief. Honour the years you spent working — they were a huge part of your life. If you give yourself the time to process that ending well, you’re in a much better place to welcome in whatever comes next.

Thank you to both Amanda and Gaynor for sharing their stories.

Everyone’s retirement story is different – and that’s exactly the point of sharing these ‘interviews’. There’s no single ‘right’ way to handle this transition, just what’s right for you..

If you’re reflecting on your own answer to these questions I’d love to hear from you. Your story might just help someone else who is taking this same journey.

Either leave a comment or email me at:

rookieretiree@btinternet.com

OUT OF TIME – Unfortunately there is no time for the other features this month but I’ll catch up with your questions next time.

FUTURE BLOG CONTENTS

In October we’re aiming to bring the travel bucket list to life. Watch out for “Madagascar Unlocked: A Bucket List Journey Beyond Imagination”

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Every chapter of the Rookie Retiree Journal explores a different side of life after full-time work — from personal stories to health, purpose and travel.

Want to explore a little further?

👉 New here? Start with the WELCOME PAGE

👉 Looking for something else? View the full CONTENTS PAGE

👉 Read related items on this topic here:

• OTHER VOICES – PART 1
• OTHER VOICES – PART 3 (USA)
• OTHER VOICES CONTINUED – PART 4

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Regards

Phil Marsh is the creator of Rookie Retiree, exploring life after work — the choices, challenges and possibilities that come with the luxury of choice.