Rethinking Retirement at 53

 When I was in my early twenties, I had a very clear picture of life.

By age 53, I imagined I would have retired — bags packed, passport ready, slowly traveling the world with no deadlines and no responsibilities.

Then I entered my forties. Reality gently tapped me on the shoulder.

I began to realise that maybe… I wouldn’t actually stop working at 53.

And now, as I approach 53 in a month, I am certain of one thing —

I will probably still be working in my 60s, perhaps even into my early 70s.

And strangely, I’m at peace with that.

These days, I find myself thinking about picking up a part-time job around my neighbourhood. Something simple, meaningful — maybe even working as a kindergarten teacher aide. Not just for income, but for purpose.

Because at this stage of life, a job is not only about paying bills.

It is also about funding future dreams — like traveling overseas at my own pace, on my own terms.

I look around me and realise I’m not alone in this mindset.

My mum officially retired as a teacher at 55, but she continued tutoring English until her early 60s.

The legendary designer Vera Wang is 76 and still working — elegant, sharp, and unstoppable.

Cliff Richard, one of my favorite singers is still doing his world tour at 85. And Barry Gibb (Bee Gees), my forever favorite singer is planning to do his final world tour at 78. 

Even my neighbour here in Ipoh is still working as an office manager at 78. Yes, almost 80 — and she looks like she’s in her mid-60s.

There really is a difference between staying engaged in life and slowly retreating from it.

And that made me ask myself an honest question:

How do I want to grow old?

I don’t just want to live long.

I want to live well.

I want to look like I’m in my 60s when I’m in my 80s.

I want an active mind and a flexible body.

I want to be able to squat, climb stairs, and still do my daily brisk walks in my 80s — maybe even my 90s, if God permits.

And for me, staying mentally and physically active includes continuing to work in some way.

So no, I don’t think I’ll be stopping work anytime soon.

Right now, I’m giving myself permission to rest and heal here in Ipoh.

But once I feel ready, I already know what comes next.

My resume is updated.

The target websites are bookmarked.

All I need to do is press “send.”

And somehow, that thought doesn’t exhaust me.

It energises me.

Because maybe retirement isn’t about stopping work.

Maybe it’s about redefining it.

Not chasing survival anymore —

but choosing purpose.

What are your thoughts on working into your 70s?

Is retirement an age, or is it a mindset?