Why part-time retirement works for us
After 18 months of full retirement, we realised that part-time retirement suits us perfectly. We’ve swapped the all-or-nothing approach for a flexible retirement that balances work, family, and (lots of) laundry.
The benefits of semi-retirement
- Extra income after retirement: It helps us fund little trips and the occasional treat for our twin boys.
- Staying active after retirement: A few workdays a week keep our minds ticking and feet moving.
- Social connection: Part-time work adds structure and gives us a reason to wear something other than fleece.
- Sense of purpose: We’re more than retired – we’re still engaged, still contributing, and still capable.
Our part-time lifestyle with kids in the mix
In our 60s, with school-age children, full retirement didn’t quite work. Working after 60 lets us mix parenting with income, flexibility, and some badly timed Teams calls. It’s not always perfect – especially when the washing machine’s on spin during a Zoom call – but it works.
Phased retirement: a smarter shift
We didn’t leap from full-time to nothing. We eased into semi-retirement, testing the waters with fewer days. Now we both work part-time, mostly from home, and plan our weeks around school runs, walks, and tea breaks.
Tips for easing into part-time retirement
- Pick the right job: Look for jobs for retirees – term-time, seasonal, or project-based roles are great.
- Set clear boundaries: Work hours are sacred. So is tea time. Don’t blur the two.
- Keep adjusting: Your perfect balance today might change next year. Be flexible.
- Understand the money side: You may be able to delay your pension or boost savings with your new retirement income.
Finding purpose and staying busy
Flexible retirement isn’t a step back — it’s a thoughtful transition. It gives us the best of both worlds: time for family, time for us, and just enough work to feel useful (but not exhausted).
Other blogs to explore
Wrapping up with a smile
We’ve discovered the joy of phased retirement, the art of the midweek nap, and the skill of muting Zoom when a child bursts in. Part-time retirement is our sweet spot – a steady rhythm of work, walks, and (yes) weekly bedding changes. It may not be everyone’s dream, but it works beautifully for us.
