You’ve worked hard your whole life, and now it’s time to enjoy retirement. But retirement doesn’t necessarily mean the same thing to everyone—and it certainly doesn’t mean you can’t work.
Sure, you might want to ditch your white-collar job, and you’d love not wearing a suit every day. Still, there are a number of exciting jobs after retirement you can take up to make a little extra cash, stay sharp, meet new people, learn new things, follow your passions, and mentor younger workers, among other things.
And who knows? You might be able to secure some pretty nice benefits, too. For example, companies such as Starbucks and Trader Joe’s give health insurance to their part-time employees.
Not sure what kinds of jobs you might enjoy during your golden years? Here are eight ideas to get you thinking in the right direction.
1. Being a teacher
If you’re interested in connecting with kids and being a mentor, you may want to look into being a teacher. This is a job that’s less about money and more about doing a good thing.
Depending on what you’re interested in, you may opt to serve as a substitute teacher for a local high school or middle school. Or you might want to look into teaching a class or two at a community college in a subject that interests you, such as music, art, or business.
2. Crafting
Maybe you’re the kind of person who has painted for years, loves sewing, or enjoys working with wood. If that sounds like you, a part-time career in crafting might be up your alley.
In the digital age, it’s easier than ever for merchants and craftspeople to sell their wares online thanks to sites such as Etsy, eBay, and Amazon. Not only would a career in crafting help you stay busy, but you may also end up generating a good chunk of change—while delighting folks across the world with your handmade creations.
3. Sitting on the board of a local small business
After a long career in the business world, you’ve picked up an endless number of insights that add up into a unique perspective that local business owners could very well benefit from.
If you’re up for it, you might want to look into joining the board of a local small business—even if you don’t draw a salary from it. By doing so, you can provide mentorship to the next generation of business owners, who will undoubtedly appreciate your advice and experience.
4. Volunteering
You might also want to leverage your experience to volunteer for local organizations or government bodies. For example, you can consider sitting on the board of your local library or even running for a seat on one of your town’s government bodies (e.g., the board of education, board of finance, or planning and zoning commission).
It’s a great way to give back to your community—and set the stage for future generations.
5. Getting on the board of a nonprofit
Similarly, you may want to consider getting involved with a nonprofit in your area. Depending on what you’re passionate about, groups such as the National Audubon Society, your local Rotary chapter, or Habitat for Humanity might pique your interest.
6. Being a golf ranger
If you’re a golfer, why not look into working a few hours a week at a local course as a golf ranger?
The job entails making sure golfers are following the rules and playing the game at a reasonable pace. In this role, you’ll meet plenty of people. And you’ll may even get the opportunity to play some rounds for free.
7. Driving for Uber or Lyft
If you’re comfortable behind the wheel, you may be interested in becoming an Uber or Lyft driver—or working for a delivery company in your area. It’s a great way to meet new people, earn a little bit of cash, and explore your neck of the woods in detail.
8. Working at a wine shop
Are you a wine connoisseur? Or are you interested in becoming one?
Working at a wine shop a few days a week will help you meet new people and learn new things. As an added bonus, you could potentially qualify for free or discounted wine. Who doesn’t want that?
Are you prepared for retirement?
The better you’re prepared for retirement, the more financial comfort you may have—and, by extension, the more freedom you’ll have to pursue the jobs you might be interested in after retirement. A comfortable financial situation will enable you to work if you want to work—or spend your time however you want to.
Are you confident that you’ve put together a plan that will help you live the retirement lifestyle you imagine? If not, EP Wealth Advisors can help.
We can work with you to create a retirement plan that works for your goals. Find out how by contacting an advisor to schedule a consultation today.