Gen X, Boomers, 9 Ways To Take Your Retirement For A Test Drive

The leading edge of Gen X and the youngest Baby Boomers are staring down a short road toward retirement. Some are starting to hear tales from those who have crossed over to the other side — from full-time professional to full-time retiree — and wondering how they will hack life after work.

Shaking his head and looking off to some distant point, Dan, a recently retired 62-year old, remarks, “It just freaks me out.” Somewhat amused, I ask, “What does?” Dan’s head whips back around toward me and exclaims, “Time! I never knew how much time I would have in retirement! I wanted freedom from work, but now finding new stuff to do is a full-time job.” Another friend listening simply laughs and remarks, “I am sure that will be no problem for me.” Dan looks away again and dryly replies, ”You just wait.”