Preoccupations: When She’s Ready to Retire, She’ll Know
February 6, 2010 by admin
Filed under Career News and Advice
I HAVE what I consider the ideal job: providing confidential advice to small businesses and working to create jobs in western Massachusetts. It’s a position I’ve had for over 17 years.
Nancy Palmieri for The New York Times
Dianne Fuller Doherty advises entrepreneurs at the University of Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network.
I started here when I was in my mid-50’s. Several years ago, I thought to myself that I would probably do this a few more years. But I have the health, energy and passion to continue. Although I certainly appreciate the lack of financial pressure that comes with postponing retirement past the age of 70, it’s not nearly as much of a motivator as the job itself.
My energy comes from the clients and the businesses they develop. I feel inspired by their resourcefulness and initiative.
One client of mine who is in his mid-20s built a business buying lost and stolen bicycles from police departments, refurbishing them and selling them on the Internet. He had a high school diploma when I began working with him six years ago. He decided to get an associate’s degree, and is about to earn a B.A. I think his success in business contributed to his wanting to continue his education, though it meant cutting back on the business.
Another client, a single mom, has a concept for organic lawn care. She was a partner in, then principal owner of, a landscape and snow removal company. We’ve discussed whether she is too far ahead of the market and what she’ll charge for her services. Pricing is always important.
If I left now, I think I’d miss the structure and the intellectual …
Read the original article at NYTimes
