<p>ucb,
It is not about showing off, at all.
It is about not looking old or defeated or obsolete. In a highly energetic, competitive business.
A man going through his mid-life crisis, being shelved at work is probably the most likely to think this way, but , hey, that is where all his managers are, too, just a bit younger, probably quaking in their boots- in their mid-to late 40’s, fearing becoming my H, in a strange way.</p>
<p>You know, I am just a more practical sort- but this is his game. He is good to me, and I am a supporter. It will take time for him to relax and find himself/see himself in a new way after being (and being very successful) in the same industry for 31 years!</p>
<p>Even is a good economy, there is no retirement program in this industry. It is highly competitive. We moved around the world for his career (making it impossible for me to work).</p>
<p>Ironically, H switched to a lower beta (lower pay/higher security) version of his job about 15 years ago. Made a lot less money in exchange for job certainty- HAAAH!
Gave up his “line” work to be in management, and now is being pushed back to the line, where he is no longer so current.
If the merger (bad luck) had not happened, he would still be the top dog, even in this bad economy. Certainly the income would have taken a hit, but the real issue is the sudden shortening of his work years.</p>
<p>Your suggestions and questions are all good.</p>
<p>MY question is: Would it not be great of there were a way to put all these well-educated oldsters back to work, to pay their own way, to defer retirement, to stay healthy, to pay some taxes, to increase US productivity?</p>
<p>Enough of this story. Although, I am glad to share a different perspective here. Hope it is illuminating.</p>
<p>It is a national cause. Having too many of us sitting around from 55 on does not sound good for ANYone or the USA!</p>