Today, again I was asked, “Why are you not retired? You teach at a community college, write, speak and coach on how best to retire. When are you going to sit back and take it easy? When are you retiring?

I’ve found, in some instances, judgements on retirement come from arrogant know-it-alls who want to talk at you, not with you. In fact, they often act as though by talking, they are doing you a favour. They are very quick to put down your ideas and actions.

I ‘retired’ from a successful career as a human resource professional. I became interested in the subject of retirement after witnessing what life after work negatively did to colleagues and a close family member. I interviewed hundreds of retirees, both successful and unsuccessful, noting the lessons learned, insights and stories. I began to write (to date seven books and numerous articles), created and facilitate workshops and webinars, coach individuals and couples, all with the intention of helping boomers find the right path towards retirement planning. I honed my skill to help them enhance their life to get the most out of their ‘golden years’.

I was given the opportunity to teach college students about human resources and its integral role within an organization. As a CESO volunteer advisor, I mentor Inuit managers as part of Nunavut’s Initiative Program.

It’s time for retired people and those about to retire to understand that there is a secret to a successful retirement. It is to be positive, stay actively involved and in control of their lives. Be an active participant in their neighborhood, clubs and life in general.

Today’s retirees are becoming energized and are actively pursuing their life goals. By adopting vitality and a zest for living, they elect to be enthusiastic about the future and determined to shape their destinies.

It’s time to fight back! When someone tries to smother your enthusiasm for an active retired life, thank them for their concern but underline you reject the idea of ageism and the old notion retirement means being a non-productive, non-contributing member of society. That you are looking forward to a life of happiness and productivity.

With critics of my lifestyle, I often answer, “I just re-wrote my job description. I’m enjoying my life and am giving back to the best of my ability.”