Retirement Odyssey: Seizing Creative Freedom and Financial Independence

Retirement is not the end of a journey but a new beginning, especially for those who are passionate about creative pursuits and financial independence. At 92, my life is as filled with adventures and discoveries as it was when I was a child. I enjoy biking, playing pickleball and badminton, traveling, and learning new skills such as art, woodworking, and socializing with others.

Retirement as a New Chapter

Back in 2000, my older brother, who was a university English professor, retired early at 58. He described his new life as a refreshing period of freedom, likening it to being 10 years old on summer vacation with no responsibilities or expectations. Each morning, he woke up excited to decide what interesting activity he would embark on that day. The comfort of having no obligations is a stark contrast to his previous life as a dedicated professor, filled with responsibilities and structured daily routines.

My Own Retirement Journey

I retired 20 years ago at 60, a decision that marked a significant shift in my life. Having left a position as Vice President of a large international organization without a pension and with only a lump sum payment, my journey began. A financial advisor mishandled my funds, and I had to take back control of my finances, becoming a self-directed investor. This experience taught me the importance of understanding personal finance and investing.

Leveraging Expertise in Financial Independence

As a successful commercial risk information consultant, finance and investment had always been my forte. Building systems to protect large corporations from losses, I had a deep understanding of commercial risk. Transitioning into investing, I realized that it was just another form of risk management. I developed software to objectively choose the strongest highest dividend payers, recognizing that corporate officers control the revenues and expenses that result in dividends, and that irrational speculators controlled share prices. My goal was to create a portfolio that would grow forever and provide a steady dependable income.

Creating a Generous Income Stream

Through disciplined investing and the growing understanding of the market, I achieved financial independence. Now, I could focus on my lifelong passion for creative pursuits. Since I was a young child, writing and creating had been part of my identity. Pursuing these interests full-time has led to the creation of three novels and a fourth one that I am currently working on. My financial journey and expertise have also spawned six investment guidebooks, which I share with readers through weekly podcasts.

Connecting with the World Through Digital Mediums

The internet has been a significant tool in sharing my knowledge and experiences. I find great pleasure in hearing from those who no longer feel intimidated by the investment industry. The web offers a platform for research, writing, creation, and communication, enabling me to reach a global audience. Fine Art America, for example, hosts 2300 of my images, showcasing my passion for painting, photography, and digital art.

Experiencing the Joy of Creative Freedom

Retirees like myself often thrive on the sense of freedom and the opportunity to delve into new activities. From morning research and writing to late-night editing and creation, the days are full of meaningful pursuits. Whether it's exploring nature, participating in social activities, or engaging in mental challenges, retirement can be a time of great creativity and fulfillment.

Conclusion

Retirement is a chance to explore new interests, meet new people, and contribute to the world. Through financial independence and the power of the internet, retirees can lead fulfilling lives, engaged in creative activities and sharing their knowledge with others. The true rewards of retirement lie not just in the financial gains but in the fulfillment of personal dreams and the joy of making a positive impact.