If you’ve been a high-profile football coach all your life and it’s defined everything about you, who are you when you retire?

It’s a question that Nick Saban, the 72-year old former coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide is likely mulling over these days.

Saban retired from his head coaching job at the University of Alabama in January and went from an “always on” role to being retired.

But as he said in a recent ESPN article, “I want to stay busy. I think everybody looks at me like, ‘This guy’s a ball coach and that’s all he does.’ I’ve got businesses, I do speaking stuff. I’ve got my TV job now with ESPN. I like to play golf. I’ve got tons of stuff to do. So I’m not retiring to quit working.”

“Not retiring to quit working.” That’s an interesting outlook, and one that would have probably been considered contradictory 20 years ago. But with many people pivoting to other work after a ‘formal retirement’ today it makes more sense.

The article covers some of the ways that Saban is adjusting to a less stressful lifestyle – while still keeping plenty busy.

Saban reflects on the stress and intensity of his coaching career, where he achieved remarkable success but had little time for anything outside of football. Now, he is embracing a slower pace of life, spending time with family, enjoying hobbies like golf, and exploring interests beyond football.

The article shares examples of how interactions with his family have changed, particularly with his wife Terry, who has provided guidance and support as he navigates retirement. Ms. Terry (as he calls her) has playfully imposed “The Ten Commandments of Retirement” on Saban, encouraging him to slow down and enjoy life. These include waiting for her to sit down at the dinner table and to slow down when eating.

Despite his retirement from coaching, Saban remains active in various business ventures and media opportunities; these include part ownership in auto dealers and a boutique hotel. He has adjusted to a new routine, including working from a new office on campus and exploring different activities and interests.

Overall, the article portrays Saban’s transition to retirement as a period of adjustment and growth, characterized by a newfound sense of freedom and relaxation after decades of high-pressure coaching. It highlights the importance of family, adaptation, and embracing change as he phases into his version of retirement.

It’s a model we all could learn from as we look to define ourselves after our formal retirement.