GOLDEN YEARS BE GONE? Reevaluating Retirement
According to a recent report by Newsweek, 64 is the average age at which most Floridians call it a day at work for the last time and embrace retirement. For some, reaching this stage of life means basking in the glow of fewer responsibilities and more time to devote to hobbies, travel, and relaxation. However, many others have reached their employment finish line only to feel unfulfilled in their new lives. Here are a few perspectives on whether retirement is still the optimal way to enjoy your later years. The Truth About Timed Retreats If world history has taught us anything, it is that societal practices often considered positive were founded on questionable principles.
In 19th-century Germany, they instituted a retirement system to give older workers a financial incentive to leave their jobs and allow new opportunities for younger generations. While this move may seem altruistic, it was actually an attempt to quiet disruptive protests by the nation’s unemployed workforce. Here in the U.S., the Social Security Act of 1935 established the distribution of benefits to citizens who had reached 65 — something that may seem laudable until you learn our country’s average life expectancy was 62 at the time. Ways to Postpone the Pivot Fortunately, people live longer now than in the ’30s — and research shows that average residents in our state live until just a few months shy of 80. Depending on a person’s physical and mental well-being, they could enjoy an active and prosperous life beyond the previously expected timeline. These days, it’s common to see seniors embrace new careers as industry consultants, community leaders, leaders in the nonprofit sector, and more. Reaching 64 is no longer a time to put yourself out to pasture; it’s a time to explore new possibilities for personal and professional fulfillment.
Ultimately, your decision whether to retire should always be based on your wishes and unique personal circumstances and never prompted by what you’re supposed to do at a certain age.
TAKE A BREAK!
INGREDIENTS
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1 1/2 cup heavy cream, divided 1 cup milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips (6 oz)
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Optional Garnish: Grated chocolate, crushed nuts, toffee, or brittle
DIRECTIONS 1. In a microwave-safe bowl, put 1/2 cup of cream in the microwave for 1 minute. 2. Stir in chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. 3. In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of cream with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. 4. Set aside 1/2 cup of whipped cream for topping, and continue whipping the remaining cream until stiff peaks form. 5. Gently fold whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture in batches, mixing until combined but still light and fluffy. 6. Spoon into four ramekins or glasses, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. 7. Top with reserved whipped cream and garnish if desired.
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