My dad worked until he died, and I swore I'd do things differently. Now, at 71, I realize it's important to stay busy.

Original story by: Business Insider Last updated: Oct 22, 2025

Context: The author, after retiring from teaching, initially struggled with a lack of structure and purpose. This led to a realization that a routine, similar to the one their father maintained in his work, was essential for personal fulfillment.
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Detailed Summary:
- The author's father worked until his death, believing in the importance of continuous effort, a philosophy the author initially rejected upon retirement.
- The author's retirement was envisioned as a period of leisure, but without a structured schedule, they found themselves procrastinating and lacking a sense of accomplishment.
- Recognizing the need for order, the author began implementing a daily routine involving writing, practicing piano, and exercise.
- This structured approach facilitated new social connections and musical collaborations, leading to tangible achievements like publishing an article and performing for others.
- The author now understands their father's dedication, realizing that work provided him with routine, social interaction, and a sense of purpose.
- The author has found a balance between embracing the freedom of retirement and maintaining a productive routine, acknowledging that this flexibility is not universally accessible.
- Ultimately, the author concludes that retirement's value lies in self-directed choices and finding personal fulfillment through meaningful activities rather than simply ceasing work.