Another Milestone Reached

[Messyshaw]

I have now been retired 11 years, so I have been gone just over a third of the time that I spent in the job (32 years). It is unbelievable how quickly it has gone as it only feels about 5 or 6 years. I am now 10 years into a new career (and paying into another pension!!) and ignoring anyone who dare to ask when I intend retiring properly. 

I am off today with Man Flu (OK, a runny nose), so having a rare minute to ponder over my 43 years in the fire game - all but 6 months of which (promoted onto a shit watch) I have really enjoyed. So I have elected to share some of my wisdom (it won't take long!!!!)

So to anyone here trying to get in - My admiration for the resilience many of you have displayed on this site when getting multiple knocks is immense- Do please keep on plugging away. Don't listen to those who say the job has changed. Life is always changing, and the way the UKFRS operate has changed too - it's inevitable. You could argue that the job in many ways is more interesting now with new kit, new competencies and roles. But the job is still about helping others and the sharp end is still about applying wet stuff on the hot stuff - just as its always been.

For those in the job and disillusioned. Just keep an eye on the real world out there outside of the appliance room doors. Is the grass really greener? There's another industrial revolution going on out there, caused by globalisation, IT and now the green agenda. Heavy industries & manufacturing has suffered and retail is going through a renaissance. People are worried about their future and their kid's futures. I know the UKFRS is not as secure as it was, but there's not many jobs that offer the security and variety as this one. So smile and enjoy it you miserable barstewards.

And for those counting down the seconds to retirement - For God's sake, enjoy every moment now and get everything out  of the job as you can. I mean such as getting as many experiences as you can. Do not think of leaving the job as retirement. It is just the end of your contract. I meet with retirees regularly. Some are extraordinarily happy and content with their new lives. Others are honest to admit that they would do anything to turn the clock back as their lives are now missing something. So don't dive off the cliff into the unknown at the end of your time. Plan something with the knowledge that despite having a good pension, it is a pay cut so those 3 rounds of golf per week might not be possible!

I have been VERY lucky and have a really interesting  job in the fire safety world and occasionally have dealings with various fire authorities across the UK. I now work part-time which provides a better work/life balance and I know I will have to start planning for my retirement soon. maybe tomorrow ............. or perhaps the day after

[HoldFast]

Fantastic post mate. Thanks for sharing such a positive and reassuring outlook. It really is an awesome thing to see. As for retirement or lack of, you keep going mate.

[TrainHardFightEasy]

Great post, always good to hear the experiences of those who have been there and got the t shirt.