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The book is called "Smart Women Don't Retire—They Break Free:
From Working Full-Time to Living Full-Time" by The Transition Network and Gail Rentsch

For the amazing female pioneers who shattered the glass ceiling, a practical and inspiring guide to reinventing what's next. Boomer women have been trailblazers throughout their professional lives. Now that their careers are losing their edge and children leave the nest, these women are ready to do for retirement what they did for the working world--redefine it.

The first book from The Transition Network focuses on the unique needs of women as they explore new possibilities and redesign the old model of retirement, which no longer offers the challenges that these women experienced throughout their careers.

This book shows how to create new and exciting work and volunteer opportunities and how to discover new outlets for creativity and passion. Rich in practical advice and stories from women who have successfully navigated this stage, SMART WOMEN DON'T RETIRE -- THEY BREAK FREE is a blueprint for women seeking a whole new set of life choices. The Transition Network is a nation-wide community of women whose members have had successful careers in government, finance, international corporations, and the arts and who are creating exhilarating new transition possibilities. Members network through monthly programs, online, and through dynamic peer groups.

Welcome Gail!!!

Hi Janet, thanks for the welcome!

Delighted to have you join us, Gail! Wow, this is exciting. For members of our group who are not familiar with your book, "Smart Women Don't Retire -- They Break Free", can you give us a quick look into what your book is about?

Thanks Janet.

Smart Women Don't Retire is about women over 50 who are thinking hard, and differently, about what’s possible for their future.

The book is for dynamic, energetic women who have built a career, whether for pay or not, and are beginning to think about “something else.” Such a woman has a great deal to offer.

For one thing, she knows a lot. She also has self confidence, well honed social intelligence, and valuable skills. So the question I address is: Why does she frequently have anticipation angst about the idea of taking charge and moving on to a next stage? And, what useful tips and information will help her find answers that are right for her.

Hmmm...are you talking about retirement?

Nooo, not necessarily. Too many of us(and I include myself here) thought that once we left our primary careers, the only option ahead was to retire and that implied living a boring, limiting life of leisure. Visualize the rocking chair on the porch or in front of the TV.

Hi there! Looking forward to getting some pearls of wisdom here! Happy to be participating! -- Deena

Hi Citygal and welcome! Gail, that's quite an image...yikes.

But that image is so unlike what today's vital women are actually doing! Instead of becoming "retiring types," we are applying our skills to new enterprises that excite and engate us. Sometimes that means building a whole new career. Or starting up a business.

Or going to school. Or negotiating a better work/life balance that allows more personal time for health and creative pursuits. It often means looking for work where we feel we can make a difference. It’s definitely not about retiring in the traditional sense of the word. It’s about building a period of our lives when we can explore new options, learn new things, and engage with others. We may call it “retirement,” but we’re reinventing its meaning to be “time to break free.”

Why do you talk about women only? Don't men have the same concerns? And by the way, the book is just terrific.