"I don't want to retire. I want to keep working."

"I've been retired for nine months and I'm bored. I want to go back to work."

"I want to quit and find a new career."

"I like what I do, but I want to find a new job."

"I know I want to keep working, but not here."

Do any of these statements sound familiar? Whether you are thinking about retiring or already retired, you should consider the consequences of retiring and leaving work behind.

If you want to continue working, you may have more options than you think you do. How about working in a job you enjoy?

You are not locked in to just one option.
We've seen people in a variety of work scenarios who benefited from weighing the options and picking one that suited them. Many individuals are cycling in and out of work and trying new jobs, new careers, new options and next acts. This is a totally different trend that is catching on. Try one of the options and if it doesn't work out, discard it and try another one.

The job market is changing. The unemployment rate is low and baby boomers are starting to retire. Employers are having a harder time finding qualified employees. As a result, employers are becoming a little more flexible in addressing the needs of prospective new hires. Current employees are starting to request more flexibility in their work schedules. When the labor supply is low and demand is up, employees have more leverage. Think about what leverage you may have.

Work in a job that fulfills your drivers.
Drivers are the emotional capital you get from work and the reasons you work beyond a paycheck. Drivers come in many forms such as having accomplishments, being part of the action, having intellectual stimulation or using your skills. While money makes the world go round, it's important to work in a job that provides you with driver fulfillment. If you enjoy the work, you reduce the chance of boredom, which can be tiring and stressful.

Steps to change

Here are some options to consider:

Slow down
If long hours and stress are making your job difficult, perhaps you can move into a more flexible arrangement. Some organizations are offering employees options that include reduced hours, job-sharing, and part-time or seasonal hours. Check out this Website for some helpful hints: http://www.workoptions.com

Get a different job
If you like what you do but aren't happy where you work, maybe it's time for a change.
Start investigating and talking with others to see where there are opportunities elsewhere. In order to be competitive in the job market you need to demonstrate that your skills are up-to-date and sharp.

Mature workers are getting hired more frequently than in the past because employers are waking up to the reality that experience matters.

Prepare for the interview
Successful job candidates over the age of 50 are often hired because they have the skills to do the job. You may think this should be the only reason, but life isn't that simple. Managers say that successful job-seekers portray themselves as energetic and enthusiastic to the interviewer, showing clear signs of a positive attitude.

Lack of computer literacy is one of the major reasons people are not hired. Today more and more jobs require the use of a computer and email. So if you are weak in this area or your computer skills are non-existent, take a computer course or get a friend to teach you.

Community colleges usually offer low-cost courses that can get you started. We can't emphasize this enough. Do a keyword search on "computer schools" to see what is available near you.

Explore the best way to conduct a job search and read up on the subject. "The Unwritten Rules of the Highly Effective Job Search: The Proven Program Used by the World's Leading Career Services Company" by Orville Pierson is a great read with a lot of good suggestions to make looking for a job easier and less time-consuming.

Take a break
Has work gotten you down? Do you hate going in every day? Are you thoroughly confused as to what you would like to do? It may be the time to take a break. If you are retirement-eligible and can afford to take some time off, start looking at what other things you could do.

Do you have an interest or a hobby that could turn into new and exciting work? Starting your own business after the age of 50 is one of the fastest growing trends. But do your homework before you make any financial commitments.

Do you want to find something to get passionate about? Read "Portfolio Life: The New Path to Work, Purpose, and Passion After 50" by David D. Corbett and Richard Higgins. This is a book that is inspiring and will definitely get you thinking about what you want to do and how you get started.

Keep working
Last, but not least, you have the option to keep working in your current job. It's great if you love the work, like the boss, get plenty of driver fulfillment and the pay is good. But if it's not all that great and you're getting the urge to move on, start looking around to see what's out there before you put in your papers. "To Find a Job...Start a New Career: The Career and Job Change Toolbox" by Marvin Rafal offers valuable suggestions.

If you want to continue working or if you want to get back in the game, ask questions, explore, and be open to new possibilities. Talk to others who are already working in the area you are considering. A little knowledge goes a long way and can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Internet Resources

Here are a few websites that can get you started looking for new work options:

Visit:don't retire, rewire!