I'm Gen Z and thought retirement was the goal. My 86-year-old grandfather changed my mind.
My grandfather is 86 and still works as a doctor after 60 years. His commitment has inspired me to rethink retirement.
A Gen Z journalist has shared her experience of being influenced by her 86-year-old grandfather, who refuses to retire even after a long and dedicated career as a doctor. The author, who always valued rest and leisure, learned from her grandfather's work ethic that ambition, purpose, and growing older can coexist.
Growing up, the author always prioritized balance in her life, but her grandfather's relentless dedication to his work as a general physician made her reevaluate her own approach to life. Her grandfather, who began his medical practice at 26 and has never taken a day off barring sickness or travel, has been a role model for her in maintaining a strong work ethic.
Born in 1940 in North India, he was the eldest of six siblings and began working in big hospitals before opening his own private practice. He also established a Rotary Club Chapter in his city, leading it many times over the decades. His deep sense of empathy, combined with his commitment to his career and responsibilities as the eldest son of a South Asian family, has made him a beloved and trusted doctor in his community.
Despite his age, the author's grandfather remains fit and independent, and he continues to enjoy life by taking time off for vacations and spending quality time with his loved ones. He has built homes for his parents, siblings, and children, and has also put down significant sums for their education and marriage. He has three children, two daughters, and a son, who feel like he should take it easy, but he adamantly refuses to retire.
The author has learned from her grandfather's work ethic that having a deep respect for one's own life is essential. His ethic showcases his will to live as long as he can, independently, and to be a functional part of society. The journalist aspires to adopt a similar work ethic, focusing on clean eating, daily workouts, nurturing ambition, and spending quality time with loved ones. Her grandfather's unwavering commitment to his work ethic has given her a fresh perspective on how she wants to live her life.
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