We often think about retirement in a strange way. For some, it represents a lack of obligations. For others, the resources to finally do what they’ve been putting off. Whatever the case, our illusions of what an outcome will be almost always fail to account for one of our most basic yet unacknowledged desires: to carry out our work for the sake of itself.
Sure, an extravagant and frivolous lifestyle may seem desirable when we’re caught in the weeds of our daily work and focused on simply getting through each week, but at further examination, this type of living doesn’t lead to an increased quality of life (or even an increased quantity, for that matter). Those who lose purpose in their work—whether through influencing millions for the better or simply tending to the lawn—also deteriorate at a faster rate. It seems that a muscle needs to be worked in order to retain its size and strength.
The shift that has to be made is through recognizing that the work will always be a part of our life, and that fulfillment comes from choosing work that we would do regardless of the money, flexibility or prestige it offers. Once we change the definition of our end-game, we can re-examine our choices today as well; what do we commit ourselves to that isn’t inherently rewarding? To truly act in what is best for us, we need to actively reduce the activities that are step-ladders to other things and double-down on the activities that, by themselves, give us the greatest sense of purpose and make us feel the most alive.
Your Work Is the Only Thing That Matters by Ryan Holiday