Retirement can be a difficult transition for many individuals, with some adapting seamlessly while others struggle to reconcile the end of their professional careers. Notably, a person’s career trajectory—whether it includes prestigious roles or decades of dedicated service—does not necessarily dictate their ability to embrace life post-retirement.
Questions arise about the nature of this transition: Is it innate wisdom or a degree of detachment that allows some to say farewell and embrace the next life phase? Alternatively, is it a profound attachment to one’s role or organization, or even an inflated sense of self-importance, that makes it hard to accept that one’s professional chapter is closed?
Numerous examples illustrate varied approaches to post-retirement life. Individuals who have not returned to their previous workplaces often embrace new interests with enthusiasm. For instance, some engage in pro bono work in the social sector, others offer coaching, and some dedicate themselves to local community organizations. One notable example is a college batchmate who, after retirement, led the largest residential solar power project in Bengaluru.
Conversely, many have chosen to enjoy their retirement through hobbies such as music, travel, or photography, relishing time spent with grandchildren. These individuals demonstrate a remarkable ability to release past achievements and explore new opportunities.
The capacity to “let go” is not merely a skill developed at retirement age; it is often cultivated throughout one’s career. A personal anecdote illustrates this: early in my career, my supervisor, a successful sales manager responsible for nurturing a crucial business, struggled to relinquish his role despite being moved to a different path by management. Months later, after I secured a major order from one of his accounts, I publicly credited him in an effort to alleviate his distress over the transition. This experience highlighted that even seasoned professionals can find change challenging.
Years later, when transitioning from a successful division leadership role, I consciously aimed for a clean break. I communicated positively with my team, reflecting on our shared successes. After leaving the organization, I lost touch with many, reestablishing connections only through social media. However, I maintained a self-imposed boundary regarding discussions of my contributions, believing it vital to prevent nostalgia from overshadowing new beginnings.
In subsequent roles, I attempted a similar approach. However, I was surprised to discover that what I perceived as a considerate farewell felt abrupt to my colleagues, who expected ongoing interaction. This experience taught me that the letting-go process is nuanced and should adapt to the sentiments of those involved.
Ultimately, embracing the notion of letting go is essential for professionals. Holding on lightly facilitates a smoother transition; conversely, clinging too tightly generates emotional burdens.
Many of my peers, now in their seventies, have welcomed retirement with enthusiasm, sharing plans for adventurous pursuits such as long-distance motorcycle rides, podcast series, and even attempts at painting—despite my limited artistic skills. Their faith in my potential reflects both friendship and an overarching positive attitude toward retirement. It underscores a vital lesson: only through letting go can one fully embrace new opportunities.
(S Giridhar is among the early members of the Azim Premji Foundation.)
Published on May 31, 2026
