After I spoke to my former coworker and had two days to consider our conversation, I declined the job offer. I had expected that I was going to pass, but as I wrote in my previous post, I wanted to gather the facts in order to make the best decision.
On our call, he gave me a candid and thorough review of the company, it’s 3 year track record and the opportunity. If this was five years ago, I would have jumped on this in a heartbeat. It’s in my hometown. There are many good people who I’ve worked with before. They are on an upward trajectory. And the position would be fairly senior level with potential for significant growth.
That night, with my mind swirling, I thought about my current retired life. I absolutely love it. I like not being on the clock. Like controlling my schedule and my activities. I love filling my day with physical activity and self-directed challenges at an unhurried pace.
If I took the job, that would be over.
I’d be working 10-12 hours a day. My commute would be 45-60 minutes each way. I’d be responsible for monthly quotas and board approved sales goals. My days would be filled with fast-paced, high-growth sales management problems, challenges and activity.
No thanks. I’ve already been there and done that.
I had nightmares about being back at work in the environment. The next morning I woke up exhausted and felt as if I was hungover.
Throughout my morning workout, I thought about the job opportunity and the pluses and minuses.
And then, after a few hours of feeling bad about everything I would have to give up to take take the job, I had clarity. I knew I was not taking the job because I liked my retired life too much.
I sent my friend a message explaining my decision and we ended the discussion.
I never asked about the money, the title, the schedule, or the potential stock options. To me, those are all irrelevant unless I was prepared to accept the job.
I don’t need to work right now. Of course that may change in the future. If that happens, I’ll deal with it then.
Immediately I felt relief. I focused intently on savoring my daily activities and enjoying each moment of swimming, dog walking, doing home repairs and spending time alone with my thoughts.
It was fabulous and has been ever since.
I don’t need work to provide me with fulfillment and challenges. I don’t need work to improve my social life. It provided this and much more in the past. But that chapter of my life is over.
Making my decision came down to answering one key question – How do I want to spend my remaining time?
I’m greatful that I have that choice.