I have no retirement plans — I want a career lifestyle that I can support

The biggest thing that changed for me in these 30 years was starting my own business. Even when I was a senior executive at several multinational corporationsI just felt like a cog in the wheel.

When I started work for start-upsand then I started my own business around the age of 50, I flourished. It was then that I realized that I had created a lifestyle that I never wanted to retire from.

My father worked until he was 83

I’m not the first person in my family with less retirement interest. My own father worked until he was 83. He was a boat captain and later became a boat pilot. When he had to take medical leave due to an injury, he became involved in international maritime organizations. He liked his work. I think his eventual retirement contributed to his death two years later.

I know my choice is not for everyone. My in-laws are both approaching 90 and have been retired for more than two decades. They liked that they didn’t “have” to do anything – they just did what they wanted. However, when I look at their choices, I know I would feel bored. This is not a value judgment. I just know that their choice is not right for me.

My wife, Kate, retired at 57 after working as a boss elementary school teacher. Fortunately, we were able to strike a balance between her retirement lifestyle and my work demands. I make sure I’m available during the evenings and we go for long walks on the weekends. We travel together at least four times a year.

I focus on the parts of work that bring me joy

Because I have my own businessI have a lot of control over my work environment. I pour my time and energy into the areas of business that interest me the most. For me, that means making strategic decisions, including fundraising and M&A.

I want to be a visionary in my business, which makes work a lifelong endeavor for me. I like to be challenged and feel like I’m learning. My father was the same – he even enrolled in college for a semester while I was there. Work allows me to feel that buzz and excitement, regardless of my age.

While not everyone can adjust their schedule as much as I can, I believe that even employees can focus on the areas of work that are most fulfilling to them.

I outsource the tasks I don’t like

At the same time, I outsource aspects of work that are tiring or unpleasant for me. My personal assistant handles all the day-to-day logistics of my program. I’ve handpicked employees who can keep things running even when I’m away from work. I’ve surrounded myself with people who like to do the tasks I don’t like.

Because of this, I have more time to travel, which many do in retirement. I usually work seven days a week (full time during the week and half time on Saturday and Sunday). However, it also takes a lot of time. I was in Greece for my daughter’s wedding in August and will be traveling to Canada for a month this fall. When I travel, I am completely disconnected, able to join Kate in her retirement mindset. I know my team will call me if something is really critical.

I’m still saving for retirement

Although I plan to continue working for at least the next 10 years, I am also saving for my old age. I live in the UK but have a retirement savings account similar to a 401(k) worth about $700,000. I have other investments that are riskier but with potentially higher returns. Ultimately, I would like to live off my investment returns, with any business income as an added bonus.

I don’t plan on working seven days a week forever. I’m creating a career that reflects what I want as I get older: intellectual engagement and a sense of purpose, with plenty of time for family and travel.