Don't 'retire' from world affairs. Sure, you may wish for a life of leisure after many years of hard work. Having said that, we live in a global economy where we are co-dependent on other nations and people. Our current banking/credit crisis is just one more reminder of how our economies are interlinked. The potential (probably real) global recession will impact us significantly.
Solutions will also be global in nature. As we talk with others, our common goals should become obvious. Yes, we might approach things differently, but most people agree that we must work to help all people climb Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Let's work to provide food, clothing, housing, and health care for all nations. One of our friends leaves for Haiti to build houses this weekend. Another will fly to India in 10 days to help impoverished women set up self-supporting businesses.
Each of us will be challenged to find a way to help. Together, we can make the seemingly impossible happen. How can you help?
Joan & Stephen
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
What's Next in Your Life?
Stephen and I spent most of this week in Kansas City where we had two book signings, gave a talk on 'What's Next In Your Life,' and were interviewed on TV. What amazed me were the number of people that felt this discussion is more important today than ever before. I honestly believed that our message would be lost with all the financial chaos that is surrounding us.
After some reflection, it occurred to me that 'planning life after 50' is positive while providing a sense of control over our lives. As the media continues to fuel economic panic in the American public, people want and need to plan for a brighter future. As we presented, I wanted to empower the audience to take positive steps in their own career and life planning.
I truly believe that we have choices in terms of our work and leisure activities. Even if we have to work longer due to losses in the market, we can do work that aligns well with our passions and interests. Finding a well-aligned job (or volunteer work), will lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment. We deserve to have 'fun' in the work we do each and every day. Are you planning for your future? What work fits best for you?
After some reflection, it occurred to me that 'planning life after 50' is positive while providing a sense of control over our lives. As the media continues to fuel economic panic in the American public, people want and need to plan for a brighter future. As we presented, I wanted to empower the audience to take positive steps in their own career and life planning.
I truly believe that we have choices in terms of our work and leisure activities. Even if we have to work longer due to losses in the market, we can do work that aligns well with our passions and interests. Finding a well-aligned job (or volunteer work), will lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment. We deserve to have 'fun' in the work we do each and every day. Are you planning for your future? What work fits best for you?
Thursday, October 9, 2008
The World Has Changed
I can't believe it. No one was predicting a crash in the banking industry and credit markets just three weeks ago. The thought of losing $2 trillion in retirement funds in the recent past is unimaginable. Many folks have seen their retirement investments shrink 20-33% in the last year. What does this mean to you?
Some will need to work longer than expected. They say that it will take an extra year of employment for every 3 years of retirement. Does that mean you have to do the same job you have done in the past? NO! There are other options. We still believe that this is the age of choice. You can find new ways to use you skills and knowledge in environments that better fit your needs. Skills are transferable.
The current financial challenges should be an incentive to better plan for your future. Take the time to think through what 'work' will provide the most meaning in your life. Where can you have impact? Where can you make a difference? Don't wait to plan your future. It's more critical now than in ever in the past.
Joan
Some will need to work longer than expected. They say that it will take an extra year of employment for every 3 years of retirement. Does that mean you have to do the same job you have done in the past? NO! There are other options. We still believe that this is the age of choice. You can find new ways to use you skills and knowledge in environments that better fit your needs. Skills are transferable.
The current financial challenges should be an incentive to better plan for your future. Take the time to think through what 'work' will provide the most meaning in your life. Where can you have impact? Where can you make a difference? Don't wait to plan your future. It's more critical now than in ever in the past.
Joan
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