Coping With Retirement Transition: Life After Sport

By Stephen Snyder


Most often, people will tell you 'Just give it your best shot' when they encourage you over something in the field called life. However, the fact is that you really need to assert yourself to reach your goal. Self-motivation is a must. And you'll find that as the years pass, it is very heartwarming to muse over the hardships you endured to attain your objectives. Coping with retirement transition is something that requires early planning.

The reason for retirement can be a natural end to a long and gratifying career. It may be premature with the athlete forced out through injury, de-selection or financial reasons. Whatever the reason, there is a transition the athlete needs to go through to adjust to a new way of life. It took me three times to finally retire from the sport.

Being prepared will eliminate a lot of the shock of retiring. A lot of us have had to retire forcefully. Either because we have been put out of work or reached mandatory retirement age and have not been able to find other employment. The premise behind a successful transition after job is to have something to keep you busy.

Self-esteem issues can contribute to the difficulties faced. A sporting career produces many regular rewards and feedback that are not found in everyday non-sporting life. Many of them miss on the everyday commitment, improving on things and the constant reminder creating this positive driving force that they were accustomed to.

Premature retirement is more painful. It also extends into elongated healing periods. This is the point that "ifs" and other "I should haves" occur. This is also the stage where you need to consider your health and body capacity. Retiring prematurely will give you the chance to reflect that people have different aptitudes, skills and destinies.

Another way to cope with this shock is to ease into it slowly. Continue to work in your profession, but at a reduced pace. It may be possible to work part-time or do some consulting that may make your transition out of the work force a success. Years ago, I had a friend who retired, but continued to come to work as if he was still part of the company.

If you are retiring, bear in mind to be very positive. The experience, knowledge, and stamina you gained from your sports life will always be a big help. Focus your attention on other things. Expand your horizons by trying out new things that you never had the time to do before. Always put in mind that you are not helpless. Being aged is not a big deal. More doors are ready to open when you knock.

Another thing is to work on a hobby that occupies your mind and keeps your hands busy. Everyone has something that they enjoy doing. Woodworking, building models, gardening, crocheting, and knitting are examples of hobbies that work and can lead to extra money that may be needed as income after retiring.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment

 

Holidays Copyright © 2011-2012 | Powered by Blogger