Mark Millican: Rethinking retirement, part one

Published 2:00 pm Friday, September 22, 2023

Like many of you, I probably spend too much time online. However, I justify it by reporting that most of the time it’s in reading, not just watching humorous or dramatic wildlife videos.

Recently, an internet post by longtime friend and classmate Wayne Russell drew my attention. It concerns the age of life we come to after six decades on this third rock from the sun, and proved interesting.

Along with getting his permission to use it, Wayne added: “It was a post from two-plus years ago. I copied and pasted it from several sources and added some of my own touch … I may be guilty of plagiarism.” At least he didn’t use the ruse that is anathema to college professors grading papers: “First use, directly quote the source; second use, it’s OK to say ‘somebody said this’; third use, it’s yours.”

So here we go, and I’ll insert some of my own comments. It’s lengthy, so we’ll run it in two parts.

1) “Between 60 and death: It’s time to use the money you saved up. Use it and enjoy it. Don’t just keep it for those who may have no notion of the sacrifices you made to get it. Remember, there is nothing more dangerous than a son or daughter-in-law with big ideas for your hard-earned capital.”

On the morning I began writing this column, here was the reading from the Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Daily Bible: “For the children ought not to pay up for the parents, but the parents for the children” (2 Corinthians 12:14). So perhaps what we need is balance in this area — don’t spend all the kids’ inheritance, yet neither go hungry and become a hermit.

2) “Warning: This is also a bad time for investments, even if it seems wonderful or fool-proof. They only bring problems and worries. This is a time for you to enjoy some peace and quiet.”

After sending the “60 and over” post to my investment and retirement counselor, he took issue with this one. I appreciate his wisdom, and went back to Wayne with the question, “Do you think the writer meant new investments?” His response: “I interpret this as: Try to make your life as stress-free as you can. Don’t be making investments in anything, whether it’s in funds invested in the stock market, real estate or risky people that are making stress in your life. Live as stress free as possible.” Investment counselors may not like that answer, but it’s honest advice from someone who is retired from the financial services industry.

3) “Stop worrying about the financial situation of your children and grandchildren, and don’t feel bad spending your money on yourself. You’ve taken care of them for many years, and you’ve taught them what you could. You gave them an education, food, shelter and support. The responsibility is now theirs to earn their own money.” Kinda goes back to the first one. Remember, these tips are not written in stone; they’re for consideration.

4) “Keep a healthy life, without great physical effort. Do moderate exercise (like walking every day), eat well and get your sleep. It’s easy to become sick, and it gets harder to remain healthy. That is why you need to keep yourself in good shape and be aware of your medical and physical needs. Keep in touch with your doctor, do tests even when you’re feeling well. Stay informed.” Like this one, a lot! If we have our health, we can handle mental and emotional stresses better.

5) “Always buy the best, most beautiful items for your significant other. The key goal is to enjoy your money with your partner. One day one of you will miss the other, and the money will not provide any comfort then, so enjoy it together.” I know someone who will really like this advice.

6) “Don’t stress over the little things. You’ve already overcome so much in your life. You have good memories and bad ones, but the important thing is the present. Don’t let the past drag you down, and don’t let the future frighten you. Feel good in the now. Small issues will soon be forgotten.” Sound advice. Keep in mind there are support groups accessible now, whether in-person or online, that can help with anything that’s proving problematic enough to alter your life.

7) “Regardless of age, always keep love alive. Love your partner, love life, love your family, love your neighbor, and remember: ‘A man is not old as long as he has intelligence and affection.’” Amen!

8) “Be proud, both inside and out. Don’t stop going to your hair salon or barber, do your nails, go to the dermatologist and the dentist, keep your perfumes and creams well-stocked. When you are well-maintained on the outside, it seeps in, making you feel proud and strong.” I would add, build up the inner person also. And, be more proud of your grandkids than your own accomplishments.

9) “Don’t lose sight of fashion trends for your age, but keep your own sense of style. You’ve developed your own sense of what looks good on you — keep it and be proud of it. It’s part of who you are.” and guys, remember this: Your dad’s Hush Puppies, Bermuda shorts and argyle socks will always be in style, especially when worn together!

10) “Always stay up-to-date. Read newspapers, watch the news. Go online and read what people are saying. Make sure you have an active email account and try to use some of those social networks. You’ll be surprised at what old friends you’ll meet.” Yes, please read newspapers!

And that’s a good place to stop. More next week.

Mark Millican is a former staff writer for the Dalton Daily Citizen.