I Need a New Retirement Plan

I Need a New Retirement Plan
By Roberta Hoag
New Jersey State Branch 933 Sergeant-at-Arms

I was lucky enough to retire on July 31, 2012, along with 110 New Jersey postmas s ters and 4,600 postmasters nationwide. It was the last big offer to a group, a nudge, an incentive and a push to retire from the Postal Service.

We all were notified of the offer in early spring 2012 and were required to commit to going by June and out on July 31st! Most of us already were eligible for a few years and ready to go; we just needed the push. We mostly were Civil Service Retirement System employees and the target of the company’s offer.

We enjoyed our jobs, for the most part, and were lucky enough to be in a position in our lives where retirement fit into our “plans.” I, for one, had so many things I wanted to do in life aside from work. I wanted to travel, be able to go to more Yankees games, continue to be active on my local ambulance corps and see friends and family more often.

Now, 12 years later, I can honestly say I am successfully retired and still enjoying life. Recently, though, I have felt over scheduled, too busy and needing a “‘vacation” from my retirement! Is it possible to be too busy? Too scheduled? Too active? The answer is, “Yes!”

I always tell friends you need hobbies and activities you love so you can be active in retirement, but be careful; don’t forget to take time for you. I have started crossing off a day or two a week where I am saving time for me: Time to relax, read, exercise, watch a movie or do nothing.

I’m still active with my church, town and NAPS, as well. But I have learned to say “no” or “I can’t today; maybe we can do it tomorrow.” It’s really important to make time for your personal health and growth. Personal wellness is a must.

Find joy, be kind and just breathe! As much as we should remain active and engaged in life in general, whether still working or retired, make sure you take time for you!

Stay well, my NAPS family. Enjoy every day.