Why I Want to Work and Learn Until the End

The other day, I had a patient in his late 70s. As part of our friendly and therapeutic exchange, I asked him if he was still working. He grinned and replied, “Heck yeah! I will work until I drop dead.” I laughed and told him, “I want to be like you when I grow up.” He inspired me. 

Jokes aside, there’s something powerful about having meaningful work and a structured routine. Studies have shown that people who fully retire often experience a decline in both mental and physical health. In contrast, those who remain partially retired or maintain a solid routine tend to live longer, healthier lives. It’s not just about staying busy—it’s about staying engaged with others.

Retirement isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it can be a beautiful season of life, especially for those who have created a routine that keeps their minds and bodies active. But for me personally, I don’t want to stop working completely when I get there —not because I’m obsessed with productivity, but because I find purpose in growth and contribution to the enrichment of others. 

I told my patient that I would like to work until the end too, and also keep learning until the very end. I love everything about learning. I hate ignorance. The pursuit of knowledge gives life meaning. It opens up the world and makes it richer, more connected, and more humane.

That’s why I often struggle with surface-level conversations, especially at work. Some people think I am antisocial sometimes, far from it. Many people I found, don’t seem to have the curiosity to ask, “What’s life like beyond my corner of the world?” But I do. I can sit in the comfort of my home and dive deep into learning about life in rural Ghana, Papua New Guinea, Auckland,New Zealand, Tasmania, Burundi, Cabo Verde, or Madagascar. That kind of exploration, mentally, culturally, intellectually is simply amazing to me.

So, what do you think, Pals?

What does retirement mean to you?

Should we keep learning until our last breath as alluded to by my patient?

Drop me a comment.

Let’s talk.

-Pal Ronnie-