The following commentary by John Phipps aired the weekend of Dec. 30 on U.S. Farm Report.
A Canadian viewer asks a deceptively complex question:
“I was wondering if you could discuss how farm owners can pass the time in retirement. Examples of hobbies, volunteer work. I wonder if some delay retirement due to wondering how to pass the days.” That’s from Charles Briggs from Lindsay, New Brunswick, Canada.
Charles, you get the last mug of 2023.
Farm media have devoted thousands of words regarding retirement from farming, but very few address the issue you raise. Many of us find out arranging our finances and transition might not be the tricky part. Farmers, as you hint often consider being workaholics a high virtue.
We brag about long and exhausting labor, even though it is usually a few months a year. Ending our career then means losing a beloved self-image and much of the structure of our lives.
Additionally, this work ethic might have crowded out recreational activities, such as hobbies or organizational involvement. Starting those activities later in life can have variable outcomes. Our geographic isolation makes group activities challenging – just getting to meetings, for example. Postponing vacation travel can be confounded by unexpected senior health problems or unlearned travel skills.
In short, planning for your time in retirement is just as important as your wealth.
For those of us with family successors, we can scale back our involvement incrementally, but there is still a time to stop. One of my favorite TV characters had a great line, “Retirement is the art of doing very little very slowly.” There’s a gem of truth in that. Above all, waiting too long to plan for that extra time often leads to too much TV, internet and alcohol. However, with those cautions in mind, I’m going to give it a try.
After almost 19 years and about 1,500 commentaries, it’s time for rest. I have been fortunate to work with great people at U.S. Farm Report, especially Tyne. Those of you who watched regularly, those who responded with thousands of comments, corrections and criticism, especially those who wrote often, in particular Brad, have added insights and encouragement for work that became an important part of my life.
A lot of fulfillment can be received three minutes at a time and that’s why this adventure has been a gift from you viewers. I hope 2024 is a prosperous and happy year for all. I offer my best wishes for whatever lies ahead for you and U.S. Farm Report.
Click here to watch and read more of John Phipps’ commentaries on U.S. Farm Report.
