My oldest is a Senior in High School, and my youngest goes into High School this Fall.

I turned 50 last year. And my husband has already started talking about our lives and the changes we will want to make “when both boys are out of the house”.

He wants to be in a position to retire from what he does now and do what HE wants.

That word, though.

Retirement.

It’s a word that (I’ve noticed) changes meaning as you age.

When I was in my 20’s and 30’s, I looked forward to the day when I could “retire” from having to work all the time and do other, more exciting things.

In my 40’s, when I decided to retire from law and start my consulting/coaching business, the word didn’t bother me at all.

I had retired from one thing but started another. So, instead of it being an ending it was about a new beginning for me.

All this talk from my husband, coupled with seeing an “end” to my boys’ childhood, has made that word feel more like an ending.

Which is why so many experienced, mature and (my favorite word as I’ve aged) wise people I’ve known bristle when the “r” word is mentioned. They don't want to even think about it.

Because they don’t want to be reminded that things will one day come to an end.

How about you, Friend?

Do you also feel like it's an ending (and so never want to think about it)?

I'm beginning to learn that it need not feel (or be defined) as an ending. Because no matter what you’re retiring from, you can still have a new beginning.

Which is why, after meeting lawyer turned succession planner David Ernst, I wanted him on the show.

Today’s conversation is all about succession planning and why not to shy away from it. We even talk about why everyone should be thinking about it (yes, even if in your prime).

Although this conversation is from a lawyer’s perspective, the conversation is important for everyone. Have a listen >>>here.

XO,

Heather