What is your question?

In 1998, a little-known British rowing team was far from Olympic glory. They were underdogs—technically skilled but inconsistent, often finishing behind the world’s best.

But by the 2000 Sydney Olympics, they shocked the world by claiming gold. Their transformation didn’t come from a revolutionary workout or high-tech gear—it came from a relentlessly simple question: “Will it make the boat go faster?” 

This became their guiding principle. Every decision—what to eat, how to train, when to sleep, how to spend downtime—was filtered through that lens.

If something didn’t make the boat go faster, it was discarded. This level of clarity and focus became their secret weapon. Now, imagine bringing that same mindset into retirement.

You’re no longer navigating meetings or deadlines, but the waters ahead remain full of opportunity. Retirement becomes your new “boat”—and your challenge is to row with purpose.

The key question shifts slightly: “Will this help me live my purpose?” Purpose in retirement isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept.

For some, it’s reconnecting with loved ones, teaching skills, serving a cause, exploring creativity, or nurturing physical and mental health.

Whatever your vision, filtering your choices through your purpose creates a life of meaning rather than just motion. Like the rowers, you can evaluate daily activities with intention.

Volunteering? That strengthens compassion and connection. Yoga and meditation? They nourish mind and body. Binge-watching or endless scrolling? Maybe not.

Each action either builds your boat or slows it down. Set your “big rock” goals—those dreams you’ve shelved for years. Whether it’s writing a book, training for a walkathon, or starting a garden.

Break them down into manageable steps, then prioritize them above life’s “sand”—the trivial but time-consuming stuff. Finally, don’t row alone.

Surround yourself with a crew—friends, mentors, fellow travelers—people who know your “boat” and will help you stay on course. Share your guiding question with them and keep each other honest.

And now, your invitation: for the next 30 days, pause before each major decision and ask, “Will this help me live my purpose?” At the end of the month, look back.

How far has your boat moved? Retirement doesn’t have to drift—it can glide with clarity, energy, and joy. All it takes is asking the right question.

#AdjunctLife, #TeacherReflections, #SeasonOfChange, #LifeTransitions, #SpringTransitions, #NewBeginnings, #MultipleIronsInTheFire, #FaithOverFear, #StayProductive, #EmbraceTheChange