Why is the Word "Retirement" Used to Describe Your End of Career?

Sunset or Sunrise? - Florida Splendor, 2008

© Enrique Fernandez, M. D.

How the Unnatural Origin of Words Render Them Meaningless

The purpose of language is to communicate ideas effectively. The use of words best serves that goal when their meaning accurately describes reality. Throughout millennia, mankind has strived to deal with the successes and failures of communication.

One example of the inexact use of words is the term “retirement.”

My Encounter With “Retirement”

For many years I used that term as commonly used in the United States. That is, until the time came that I faced the unexpected end of my career as a Plastic Surgeon.

The diagnosis of cancer, its treatment and aftermath had a way of broadening my perspective about life. This was a vivid example. The good news, is that am cured, healthy and well!

Questions as Teachers

Questions and answers have a way of broadening one’s perspective. Questions like Why and What?

You ask yourself questions you previously did not need to ask about life.

Then and now, I had a deep, pervasive feeling: I did not like what “retirement” represented.

At that time, the idea of “retirement” loomed large. It was unexpected, unwanted and uncomfortable.

Yet, I felt invigorated, enthusiastic and optimistic. These feelings were supported by my faith, family and vision of a future life yet to be created.

That word kept revolving within my consciousness.

The term did not at all describe the experience I was living.

I felt instinctively that its use was unintentionally disrespectful and inaccurate.

I believed then as I do now, that the use of that word to describe the end of a person’s career in contemporary America, is an inadequate use of language.

I believe, as I write, that it is not a proper way to refer to a major event in the life of human being…anywhere.

I further questioned its use.

Learning From Language

My native language is Spanish. English is my second.

At one time or another, I have studied Latin, French and Italian.

It is natural for me to strive to express myself accurately. In order to do so, I often find myself researching the meaning of words and sometimes their origin.

I asked myself: “Why is this word used?” Then I searched for answers.

First, I researched the use of the term “retirement” as applied to a person’s end of career.

Here is what I learned from one of my best friends:

Merriam-Webster - “pullback, retreat, withdrawal”

Various other sources describe it as: banish, discard, throw away, etc.

 Second, I questioned why it came into use if it resonates so uncomfortably in the minds of so many people.

I learned that the word “retirement” did not arise spontaneously from common language among humans to reflect their experience.

Rather, it originated from the language of legislation in Germany and the United States in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. These were the laws enacted to provide universal government financial support for…”retirement.”

Third, I asked whether other cultures use the same or similar terms.

I found that this varies widely.

However, it is interesting that in Spanish culture, “retirement” is not used to describe the end of career. Rather, the word used is “jubilacion” or jubilation! It originated from Latin: “jubilare” or to shout for joy!

This clearly reflects a very different perspective.

If Not “Retirement,” Then What?

Well, a word that describes reality.

I believe that one should strive to use language that best communicates what we feel and think.

At this time of your life, you will likely experience a variety of thoughts and feelings. They will reflect what you are leaving behind as well as the opportunity to create a new reality from dreams you have long dreamt.

It is a time:

• To benefit from the opportunity to be creative.
• To be focused, disciplined and courageous to make your dreams a reality.
• A time that presents you with incredible potential for renewal, joy and fulfillment.

We Can Choose How to Speak

My choice is: Transition.

In contrast, these are synonyms of Transition according to Merriam-Webster:

“shift, changeover, metamorphosis, transfiguration, transformation, reconversion, remodeling”

When spoken or written, it instantly clearly conveys a feeling of optimism and dynamism.

You can imagine feeling engaged in forward motion, that you are fulfilling your purpose.

It simply feels better.

Retirement closes doors. Transition opens them.

Let your words really reign and reflect how think, feel and live!

 PS: Do you want to learn more from me about how to create and experience a fulfilling end of career Transition? To help you, I provide consulting services tailored to your specific needs. Click here to apply for a complimentary strategy session.

Aspens Aspiring to Renewal

Carson Canyon, Sierra Nevada, 2013

© Enrique Fernandez, M. D.