Knowing When It's Time

As I write this, Billy Slater, Queensland Legend and surely one day Immortal, is preparing for his last State of Origin game. The week prior, the AFL world received the news Cyril Rioli, at only 28 years of age, would be retiring. Very sad news for a Hawthorn supporter like me but it is obviously the right choice for Cyril.

How do these elite athletes make the decision that it is time to retire totally or simply retire from representing their state and country? For a lot of them, they are walking away from all they know and a large chunk of their life. Physical capability may play a large part, as well as other responsibilities which become more important than the sport.

It is something I have wondered about many times. Walking away from performing at an elite level, the adulation, the buzz from achieving. Similar to aging rock stars. There must be such a gaping hole left in their life. Maybe that’s my melancholy. Obviously, this does not apply to The Rolling Stones! The affect retirement from elite sports has on mental health is finally being recognised. Insight on SBS did a great two part program on the subject with sports people we all know sharing how retirement affected their mental health.

It is the same for us mere mortals. When we decide to make a decision regarding our working life we are going to be faced with challenging questions. Whether you are looking to be promoted, change your place of employment, change your career path, start or buy your own business or retire, preparation is required. Yes even retirement requires planning and not just financially. Planning what you are going to do with your days is important!

All of us will be different in how we experience this change. It may be very easy if you want to get away from where you are. But being prepared is the key to doing it successfully.

What is your next step? Is it the right time? Are you ready?