How do you want to retire?

Retirement often conjures images of leisurely days, free from the demands of work. For some, it’s a dream fueled by pensions or vast wealth. But for many of usthose who aren’t government officials with cushy benefits or billionaires with endless resourcesretirement isn’t a practical option. Instead of chasing an elusive finish line, I’ve been thinking about what makes work meaningful as I approach the later stages of my career. Here’s my vision for the ideal workplace, one that keeps me engaged and eliminates the need to retire.

A workplace should be a space where you can thrive, not just survive. A non-toxic environment is essentialfree from unnecessary stress, cliques, or unfair treatment. It’s a place where collaboration trumps competition, and everyone’s voice is valued. When negativity is absent, work becomes a source of energy rather than exhaustion.

The ideal workplace doesn’t discriminate based on race, gender, religion, or any other factor. Growth opportunities should be available to all, determined solely by talent and effort. Whether it’s a promotion, a new project, or a chance to learn, everyone deserves a fair shot to advance and contribute.

In a truly great workplace, the quality of your work speaks louder than your title. No one should feel “too small” to share ideas or make suggestions. A culture that encourages input from all levels fosters innovation and ensures that the best ideas rise to the top, regardless of who they come from.

With these conditions in placea supportive environment, equal opportunities, and a focus on qualityretirement becomes unnecessary. Why step away from work that’s fulfilling and rewarding? The only reason to retire, in my view, is if health prevents you from contributing productively. Otherwise, I’d rather stay engaged, keep growing, and continue making a difference.

Retirement isn’t the goal for everyone, and it doesn’t have to be. By creating workplaces that prioritize fairness, respect, and meaningful contributions, we can redefine what it means to work in the later stages of life.