The Absent Uncle: The devil you know

Every once in a while, I get this thought about responding to an invitation to a job or engagement that is online. I have been totally inactive now for about four years, but every once in a while, that thought of reengagement in the working world pops up.

Last week Sherrill and I hosted probably my favorite industry recruit for dinner with he and his son as they travelled through the Houston area. It was great to see him, get caught up on the gossip among the active school transportation people he deals with regularly, and once again think about joining the day to day, plus, to reminisce about our meeting and his unique hiring.  

He often passes me leads or links to get me back into the flow. I used to look at them more carefully than I do today, but … you never know.

When I look at the “jobs” or “gigs” (in the correct current parlance) I think how much travel, how current am I on the ways to get things done in what is required, and what I am going to give up in my retirement that I am willing to forgo? 

Don’t get me wrong – I know how fortunate I am to be able to pick and choose. And for the last four years I didn’t choose to apply. But every once in a while, I think about it.  

It would be fun to look into problems, figure out a solution, propose a plan of action, and see it through. Fixing something – hopefully!

Oh, but wait a minute. A schedule? Commitment? Maybe having to understand unforeseen circumstances and really figure out the next step(s)? And follow through?

Careful. This retirement thing has really taken over the work ethic. It used to be that I had to step up, be involved, useful. No second thoughts. 

But now, maybe leave it to those that have something at stake and are not looking at the recliner and a nap. Or what about Cabo time next April?

Maybe you think you know the right thing to do, but how are you going to convince the customer? Hmm … let this one pass on by.

Retirement – the devil (and blessing) you know. Stick with it.