School friends reunion after retirement—five years of shared memories

Retirement isn’t just about stepping away from professional responsibilities; it’s about rediscovering life, cherishing moments, and reconnecting with people who shaped our early years. One such special moment for me was reuniting with my childhood friends, Sunil Dhar and Deepak Tiku. We were inseparable back in the early seventies during our school days in Jammu, J&K. Decades later, after each of us had walked our individual paths and built our lives, retirement finally gave us the chance to meet again in Delhi, where we were now somewhat settled with our families. The photo of our reunion captures not just three retired professionals, but three schoolboys reliving memories, laughter, and friendship that time could never fade.

These five years of retirement have been filled with such priceless moments, teaching me that life after work isn’t about slowing down, but about embracing new beginnings. From reconnecting with old friends to pursue passions and spending quality time with loved ones, every day brings its own reward.

In this reflection, I’ll share the key milestones, challenges, and beautiful moments that have defined these five years — a journey that has been equally introspective and fulfilling.

I Have Completed My Five Years of Retirement

As I reach the five-year milestone of my retirement, it’s time to look back and reflect on the journey since October 2019 when I bid farewell to my long career in the pharmaceutical sales industry. My experience of transitioning from a corporate professional to a retired individual has been a mix of personal growth, adjustment to new routines, and navigating the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. These years have taught me valuable lessons and reshaped my outlook on life. Retirement often marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. As I reflect on the five years since I walked away from my professional life, I realize how different this phase has been — yet, how fulfilling and peaceful it has turned out to be.

A Smooth Transition: From the Unexpected “Lockdown” Era to Health and Family First

Retirement was meant to be a phase of relaxation, travel, and pursuing personal interests. Just after I retired, my family and I took a much-awaited trip to Europe, enjoying the rich history, culture, and the beauty of various countries. However, this period coincided with the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Little did we know that the virus, initially only a distant concern in Wuhan, China, would soon dominate global headlines and turn our lives upside down.

Despite the growing concern, we returned home, but as the pandemic spread, the country went into lockdown. This shift marked the beginning of a new chapter, one that I could not have anticipated. The lockdown changed our daily lives, making us stay indoors, rethink our priorities, and adjust to a “new normal.”

During this time, I focused on staying safe, maintaining health, and keeping in touch with family. We were constantly worried about our daughter, who was studying in France at the time, as the virus began to impact Europe severely. Eventually, the Indian government arranged a special repatriation for students, which was a huge relief.

Keeping Busy in the Right Way

You might think retirement is about sitting back and taking it easy. But for me, it’s been about staying mentally and physically active. I’ve spent most of my time reading, writing small pieces for various outlets, and maintaining a daily news website. The website keeps me constantly alert and connected, providing me with both a challenge and a sense of purpose. It’s my way of staying engaged with the world around me, and honestly, it’s a daily commitment that keeps my mind sharp and curious.

Though many of my friends suggested I take up another job or some other form of work to keep myself busy, I’ve chosen a different path. I haven’t looked back to find a corporate job or something formal to do. Instead, I’m embracing a simpler, more fulfilling way of life, where the hustle and bustle of my earlier years are replaced by peaceful productivity.

The Importance of Financial Planning and Freelancing

Retirement, while a time for relaxation, also requires a solid financial foundation. One key aspect that became apparent to me during these five years is the importance of managing retirement savings wisely. Many retirees, including myself, find comfort in freelancing or consulting as a way to stay engaged professionally while also earning an income. The flexibility of freelancing allows for a fulfilling post-retirement life, blending professional expertise with personal satisfaction.

Having retired from the pharmaceutical industry after over three decades of dedicated service, I chose not to extend my career with an extension. This decision was rooted in my belief that companies should embrace new talent, which brings fresh perspectives and ideas. While experienced professionals bring invaluable insights, the infusion of young talent is necessary for continued growth. This is a principle I have always followed, and it reinforced my decision not to seek a post-retirement extension. Instead, I focused on enjoying a stress-free retirement and, when the time was right, engaging in activities that fulfilled me on a personal level.

New Beginnings: A Shift in Lifestyle

The second year of my retirement brought a new realization. As the pandemic stretched on, I started contemplating a change of environment. After living for decades in the densely populated areas of Delhi, I made the decision to move to a quieter, more peaceful area of Gurugram. This decision was prompted by the challenging times we faced during the second wave of COVID-19, where Delhi became one of the most severely affected areas. Relocating provided me with a sense of security, peace, and a chance to enjoy life in a less polluted and more serene setting.

This shift also gave me the opportunity to reflect on my career and how I could contribute in a way that didn’t require the traditional corporate path. I realized that retirement offered me the freedom to pursue things I had previously put on hold. Writing, publishing, and spending quality time with family became my new priorities. These changes not only enhanced my personal life but also allowed me to step back and appreciate the simple joys of life.

The Discipline of the Restaurant

One thing that has introduced a sense of discipline in my daily life is my son’s restaurant and cloud kitchen business. Even though it started as his side hustle, I’ve been involved in it for a couple of hours every evening. I visit the restaurant daily, offering support where needed, and keeping myself engaged in something productive outside of my usual routine. It’s been a perfect balance — still enough work to keep my mind engaged, but not so much that it feels overwhelming.

The Joy of Grand fatherhood

But the biggest change in this year has been my grandson. He was born in February 2024, and it’s safe to say that his arrival has been the highlight of my retirement. There’s something truly magical about becoming a grandfather. I find myself engrossed in his little world, watching his first steps, his first words, and feeling a renewed sense of purpose. I never could have imagined the joy he would bring, and every day with him feels like a new adventure.

My Daily Routine: A Balance of Health and Leisure

So what does my typical day look like now? It’s a well-balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

• Morning: I start my day with a long walk of 4–5 kilometers, which helps me stay fit and enjoy the fresh morning air.
• Midday: After my walk, I settle in for a few hours of reading and writing, where I focus on my daily tasks, news writing, and personal thoughts.
• Afternoon: The rest of the day involves some errands and market work with my wife. We enjoy running our little household errands together, something we rarely had time for during my working days.
• Evening: In the evening, I head to my son’s restaurant for a couple of hours. It’s a nice way to stay connected with the business without overwhelming myself.
• Night: Finally, I wind down by watching the news on TV, keeping myself updated with current events, followed by a good night’s sleep.

This routine has allowed me to stay active, but also have plenty of time to relax and enjoy life. It’s a simple rhythm that works well for me, and I have no intention of changing it anytime soon.

Looking Ahead: Contentment and Peace

What do I want out of the rest of my retirement years? Honestly, I just want to see everyone around me happy and healthy. My family is my focus, and if they are content, I am content. I hope to continue writing, sharing my thoughts with the world, and inspiring others with my experiences.

I don’t have grand ambitions or specific goals anymore. The focus has shifted from professional milestones to personal happiness. I want to continue spending time with my family, watching my grandson grow, and keeping my mind sharp through writing. If my words can touch even a few people, then I consider that a success.

Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back, retirement hasn’t been a time of sudden freedom and endless leisure. It has been a time to reset, reimagine, and rediscover what truly matters. In those first few months after retiring, I felt the pang of loneliness and the shock of sudden freedom. But as time went on, I found my rhythm. I learned that staying busy with the right activities — activities that make you feel fulfilled — is key. For some, this might mean taking up a new job, volunteering, or learning a new skill. For me, it’s been about writing, spending time with family, and staying connected with the world around me.

As I step into my sixth year of retirement, I feel at peace with where I am in life. I’m grateful for the time I’ve had, the people I’ve shared it with, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Retirement has given me the chance to do things I never could before, and I look forward to the future, however it may unfold.

Having spent over 38 years in the pharmaceutical industry, I learned that balancing experience with innovation is crucial for personal and professional growth. Even after retirement, one can continue to innovate and contribute in ways that don’t rely on traditional employment. For those who are contemplating retirement, I would encourage embracing it with an open mind, exploring new opportunities, and making the most of this new chapter in life.

In conclusion, the last five years have taught me a great deal about the importance of embracing change, staying healthy, and finding new ways to contribute. It’s about living life with purpose, whether through freelancing, writing, or simply enjoying the company of family. Retirement is not the end, but the beginning of a new journey — one that I look forward to navigating with curiosity, joy, and resilience.

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