I'm about to reinvent myself. Today I filed the paperwork to retire from my job. I wasn't planning on this outcome for at least another ten years or so. But earlier this year things got pretty bleak. The downturn in the economy has taken its toll on the organization I work for. Our unions were faced with accepting concessions and the offer of a "Golden Handshake" or layoffs. Two unions voted against the concessions and some people were laid off in August. My union voted the other way and now the opportunity to retire early is real. The way I see it, I'd be a fool to not to take it. So, today Mr. Celia and I signed in the presence of a notary and on January 21st, I'll be leaving my current employment. Let's call it an offer I couldn't refuse.
Now begins the reinvention. This job has been very good to me. I've learned a lot and worked on some GREAT projects. I went there as a geeky graduate student and will leave an accomplished professional. I still need to work - and I'm young for a retiree - so I'm looking for something new. The retirement income and benefits allow me to consider a wider range of options, like part-time or project-by-project consulting offers. I am alternately excited and terrified. But I'm pretty sure there's something really cool ahead. I just have to make it happen.
HolymoleyIreallydidit!
