Why Work When You Can Afford to Retire?

If you can afford to retire, why are you still working? It’s a question I find myself pondering from time to time, and you may be in a similar boat.

At first blush, as someone who retired from anesthesiology at the age of 43, I may seem like the poster child for those who say Yes to retirement and No to work. The truth, however, is that I not only continued to work in medicine for nearly five years after I realized that I could afford to retire, but that I also continue to work in a different capacity to this day.

There are some very good reasons and not-so-good reasons to continue working despite having attained financial independence. Let’s look at why people work when they don’t need the money, and I’ll try to do some self-reflection, as painful as that can sometimes be.

Inertia

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Newton’s first law of motion is a tough one to overcome. A career in motion tends to stay in motion. An abrupt change in direction or a complete stop requires a strong outside force, and it’s often easier to let the ball keep rolling. Continue the status quo.

While counterintuitive, choosing not to work requires a substantial effort. You must convince yourself that you’re ready; you may have to convince loved ones and friends, too.

Most professionals, especially those in the healthcare field, can’t just give two weeks’ notice and start packing up the office. Breaking up is hard to do, and your contract or conscience may demand that you give several months’ notice or more.

The status quo typically comes with certain benefits, too, like a steady income, regular social interaction, and a sense of purpose and satisfaction. I’ll touch more on that later.

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