Recently, I had the opportunity to have a chat with Scott Lawrence, CEO of Lawrence & Schiller, a marketing and advertising agency in Sioux Falls, SD. The first thing I noticed about Scott, even over the phone, was his zeal. At 65 years of age, he was excited about his life and for the future. Relationships have been and are still at the center of Scott’s life. Here are some takeaways I had from my conversation.
Relationships give you energy
Early in our conversation, I asked Scott, “Where do you get all of your energy?” He explained that other people are the source of that energy. Community is vitally important to the life of a retiree. Even staunch introverts benefit from the company of others.
Relationships provide an opportunity to serve
Scott mentioned several retirees that he knows are not as happy as they were expecting. While working, no matter your career, you are serving and adding value. This should not change in retirement. Scott has an impressive resume of service being part of several high-profile boards and contributing to other regional causes. It’s clear there’s strong correlation between this service and Scott’s vibrancy.
Relationships keep you in the game
Isolation is one of the worst things for a retiree. Isolation can lead to loneliness, which can quickly transition into depression. Humans are community creatures. There is something in our DNA that longs to be around others. When relationships or our sense of community fizzles in retirement, our fever for life can quickly follow suit.
Final thoughts:
Scott said the biggest mistake retirees make is NOT utilizing every opportunity to make and grow relationships.
Questions to consider:
- What relationships in my life needs nurturing right now?
- Who could use a phone call from me?
- Who is someone I could help or add value to?
Want more?
Listen to full episode of Retire Repurposed with Scott Lawrence here:
Jerrid Sebesta
Co-Founder of Retire Repurposed
