Sanjay Jha answers

Posted by: sanjay_jha | Comments | DC

Question

I've been an operations manager for a public sector bank for more than 20 years. I've decided to take early retirement in a year and now I can't seem to get motivated to do my job. It seems pointless. I don't want to institute anything new because I might not be able to complete it before I leave. Yet I'm bored to tears just doing the same old thing every day. I feel terribly guilty about not being a top contributor anymore. What can I do?

Answer

First of all, get rid of the guilt. You have so much experience and insight that you are probably contributing more than you know. Certainly you earn your pay just by handling the day-to-day problems that come up. If you are doing your job, be satisfied that the company is happy with you.

            Now, here are a few ideas for staying motivated over the next year:

1. Leave a legacy. Is there something you'd like to be remembered for at the company? Perhaps it's a new reporting or accounting system. Instead of feeling as though it's pointless to institute changes, look at this as the opportunity to use your stature in the company to make the job and the department better.

2. Mentor your replacement. If there is someone in the company destined to take over your job, now is the time to start working with that person. If there isn't anyone available, offer to help management find and groom the right person. Just as the systems you set up are your legacy, you can have a hand in the future of your department and the whole company by the information you pass on to others.

3. Look forward to your retirement. You don't mention what you plan to do when you retire. If you don't know, I'd start thinking about it right now. Many people are surprised by the stress that suddenly having no job can cause. I've known some people who've begged to come back to work after a year of retirement!

            Instead of being surprised, look at retirement as a new full-time job with goals and objectives. Come up with a 10-year plan that includes fulfilling activities. If you want to try something totally different, now is the time.

Retirement also can be difficult because it robs us of our identity as a contributor to society. Don't forget that you can bring a lot of skills to a future employer or a volunteer position. Non-profit organizations are crying for people with administrative skills to help them lend and administer scientific grants while virtually any organization would appreciate your managerial insight.

4. Create a healthy balance between work and family. This is just a reminder not to get too consumed with yourself during your retirement. Even if you're doing exactly what you've always wanted, this should also be a time to help groom the next generation. Spend time with your children and grandchildren. Be a good role model. And most of all, show pride in everything you have done and are doing.