Retirement is the fact of stopping work because you have reached a certain age (especially in paid employment.) In most cases, it is either the attainment of a certain age or the putting in of a number of years at work, whichever comes first.
This cessation of employment is usually misconstrued to mean old age, tiredness or not being in touch with modernity. These misconceptions fuel the psychological trauma that finds a home in the body and mind of an unprepared retiree, especially in dealing with the following: How to break the news to family and friends; the potential (possible) solitary life; the palpable fear of the unknown future; the blame game (between self and employer – if there is suspicion of a witch-hunt); the usual initial (unnecessary) effort to impress others into believing that all is well, and finally the adjustment to a new lifestyle.
Whether in the prime or twilight of our employment, we must prepare for the inevitable retirement. It is joyful when prepared for; painful, if otherwise. Financial security is the key to a blissful retirement.
The book “The Richest Man In Babylon” by George S. Clason provides very simple, yet effective, tips in connection therewith:
- Pay yourself first: Save at least 10% of your earnings before spending on anything else
- Live within your means: Avoid unnecessary expenses and live below your income to build wealth
- Invest wisely: Seek advice from knowledgeable people and invest your money wisely to make it grow
- Control your expenses: Keep track of your expenses and make conscious choices to avoid overspending
- Don’t gamble with money: Avoid risky investments or get-rich-quick schemes. Stick to reliable opportunities
- Make your money work for you: Put your money to work through investments that generate passive income
- Protect your wealth: Invest in insurance or other means to protect your assets from unforeseen events
- Seek knowledge: Continuously educate yourself about money and finance to make informed decisions
- Be persistent: Building wealth takes time and effort, so stay committed to your financial goals
- Be generous: Help others when you can, as kindness can lead to positive returns.
These timeless lessons emphasize the importance of saving, investing wisely, and living responsibly to achieve financial success and prosperity.
Buying A Football Player: Key Considerations
Before a good football coach sets out to buy a player, there are four basic considerations as enunciated by the legendary “le professeur” Arsene Wenger. First, the talent. This could be real/existential or potential. Without a recognizable talent or skill, a footballer, even if a rookie, has no business in the trade. Second, the age.
For a coach who is interested in a gradual building of a team, the younger the player, the better for him. For a coach who wants instant “success,” the age does not matter, inasmuch as the other considerations are positive. Third, the cost. World football is becoming an expensive business. Very shrewd coaches apply prudence in negotiations for player purchase, while those who work for the richer clubs pay little attention to this consideration. Fourth, the resale value.
A player may fail to meet the expectations of his coach after he has been bought. He may then be put up for sale. Every club tries to minimize the size of a negative resale value. The younger he is and the more potential he possesses, the higher his resale value, and the better for the coach and the reselling club.
LAST LINE: “Victories are not born on the field. You create them during
practice – day in and day out.” … Silvia Pencak
