Finding New Purpose Through Digital Technology After Retirement
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Chapter 1: Embracing Change
Last week, I experienced a shocking and heartbreaking moment when my dad, my closest companion, passed away unexpectedly.
Before I left the hospital, a nurse handed me his smartphone and computer. Just days before, he had insisted on taking his devices with him to the hospital, saying, "I feel well enough to do some work." However, things turned out differently.
Once home, I glanced at his smartphone and noticed a slew of new emails and messages. Initially, I felt overwhelmed and hesitant to check them, thinking, "Why bother with these trivial messages?" Yet, despite my sorrow, I found myself looking at them thirty minutes later. I thought about whether any of the messages required his attention. Ignoring his work felt wrong; what mattered to him seemed crucial to me now.
I was glad I did. He wasn't a social media enthusiast, shunning the popularity contests and self-promotion that often accompany it. Instead, he dedicated his life to serving others, managing the online presence for various businesses, such as a restaurant, an aquarium shop, a sports organization, and a legal service.
I was fortunate to have a dad who, despite being a baby boomer, was more adept with technology than many digital natives I know.
Chapter 2: The Challenge of Retirement
He was always active, a remarkable sales and marketing professional with a vibrant spirit. However, adjusting to retirement proved challenging. People often judged him based on his age and gray hair.
As the world increasingly embraced digital communication, many retired individuals felt marginalized. After all, who would value the skills of someone from his generation? Growing up, letters were the primary form of communication, and he often had to visit neighbors just to make a phone call. I've heard numerous stories of retirees feeling disconnected from society.
Recognizing the need to adapt, my dad committed to learning anew. One of his strategies for self-education was playing video games—not simple board games, but intense adventure and role-playing games. To my surprise, he excelled at them. We even engaged in friendly competitions to see who could complete a game first, and it was often difficult to outpace him. We shared many joyous moments.
Section 2.1: Digital Transformation
The outcome? He cultivated a unique skill set that blended traditional and modern techniques. Rather than being intimidated by computers and online tasks, he found them invigorating. He delved into the Internet, social media, and online advertising, successfully applying his analog marketing expertise to new digital platforms. This combination not only revitalized his career but also brought renewed meaning to his life.
Chapter 3: A New Identity
The digital landscape provided my dad with a fresh lease on life—a new role and identity post-retirement. No longer judged by his age, he felt relevant and even pioneering in the digital sphere.
Staying engaged, he discovered a newfound purpose. Up until last week, he was actively reaching out to "clients" for photos and stories, eager to assist them in building their communities.
I take immense pride in my dad. He grasped the crucial lesson that time waits for no one. Eventually, the future will catch up with us, but we can control the timing of that encounter by remaining ambitious and continually honing our self-learning abilities.
Section 3.1: Continuing the Legacy
As I move forward, I am committed to keeping his legacy alive, ensuring that others can build upon the foundation he established.
Chapter 4: The Digital Journey
The first video titled "Technology is Separating Advisors. It Could IMPACT You" explores how digital advancements can create divides in traditional roles and highlights the importance of adaptation in the modern world.
The second video, "Life Advice I Wish I Knew In My 20s," offers insightful reflections on growth, learning, and embracing change throughout life.