As I think about my phased retirement and explore new activities, one idea that keeps coming up is serving on a paid board. I’d love to leverage the experience I’ve gained over the years—especially in areas like leadership, technology, and strategy. A friend of mine does this kind of work and recently gave me a few board profiles to review as inspiration.

One, in particular, caught my attention. It described how the gentleman had completely reinvented himself after a long career in one field. That really stuck with me. It made me realize that this next phase isn’t just about slowing down—it’s about shifting focus and reconnecting with the things that have always intrigued me.

For most of our working lives, a practical filter shapes our choices. Sure, you might’ve been fascinated by classical architecture, astronomy, or behavioral economics—but let’s be honest: there were bills to pay, kids to raise, and meetings to attend. There wasn’t always time (or energy) to pursue what simply interested you. You probably had to make a living.

That’s what makes phased retirement such a gift. It’s not a hard stop—it’s a soft landing. It’s a chance to re-engage with all those “maybe someday” ideas, without the pressure to monetize your work.

Take me, for example. I’ve always been interested in economics. Not in the “sit through a 400-level macro class” way—but I’ve always been curious about how people and markets behave, how incentives shape decisions, and how institutions like the Federal Reserve or the International Monetary Fund operate. Plus, I think it’s cool to read The Economist.

For years, I minimized my understanding though while focusing on my career, family, and day-to-day responsibilities.

Now? As I start my own phased retirement, I’m considering launching my own “think tank.” It doesn’t have to be formal or funded. I’m reading what interests me, writing my own take on things, sharing ideas, and digging into questions I never had time to explore. Best of all, I appointed myself Chief Economist. No interview required.

If we meet up soon, don’t be surprised to see a copy of The Economist tucked under my arm or The Wealth of Nations on my desk.

That’s the beauty of this phase. You can create roles for yourself. Start a newsletter. Teach a workshop. Take a class. Join a discussion group. Build a project just because it excites you. You don’t need a job description anymore—you get to write your own.

Phased retirement is a rare blend of freedom and focus. You still have structure—but now it’s your structure. You still have goals—but they’re driven by curiosity, not obligation.

You’ve spent a career building experience, resilience, and insight. Now you get to turn the page and create your think tank, or podcast – or whatever it is that uniquely interests you. Be your own Chief Economist. Or Chief Learner. No one’s handing you a title anymore—which means you can claim any one you want.

You’ve earned this. Make it yours.