Interesting or interested?

Why is it that some people reach retirement and want to be happy, expect to be happy, think they deserve fulfilment, yet can’t find it. So often it comes down to self-reflection, although having a retirement coach can help.

Here is a simple topic to reflect on.

Have you ever thought about the difference between being an interested person and an interesting person in your retired life?

Maybe you haven’t and that’s fine. But in retirement you can reflect deeply on this question and it is worth the trouble. Let’s deconstruct the difference.

What is an interested person?

Let me answer in the context of meeting someone for the first time, say at a party. I think being interested comes down to:

·      Being a good listener

·      Showing that you are curious about others

·      Taking risks and not being afraid to fail

I’m sure you have met people like that. Perhaps that is you.

If you want to know more about how to re-imagine retirement, please download the free resource at

https://www.64plus.com.au/free-resources

What is an interesting person?

Again at the party, what makes you a person that people want to spend time with? I’m guessing you want to be that person. Personal confession: I do.

It may come down to:

·      Telling good and amusing anecdotes

·      Laughing a lot

·      Showing that you are engaged in worthwhile activities in retirement (e.g. voluntary work)

If you have thoughts to help with these lists then email me jon@64plus.com.au

Conclusion

Now it gets interesting.

Back at that party, if you show that you are interested then you become an interesting person. But the logic won’t work in the other direction always: you can be a fascinating raconteur yet show no interest in other people.

Finally, why can retirement feel strange? I think it’s because you have more time to engage with the world and ask questions, and that is a good thing.