On the importance of post-tenure hobbies (and having a life away from work) for a post-academic happily ever after.
When I was young, my field was populated by giants. They were vibrant, dynamic characters who dominated conference panels, edited journals, and controlled the broader conversation in the field.
As I've entered mid-life, many of those giants have moved on to Valhalla.
Some went willingly, letting people know they were retiring in a few years, winding things down & letting go.
Others went with a fight, forced out, leaving messes in their wake & messaging people from the beach.
As I've watched the giants move on to new adventures, I've noticed those that planned, seemed much more at ease. Those that were driven, seemed more uncertain.
What was the key difference?
A broader perspective.
Too many faculty become single-minded with work, wrapped up in writing papers, running programs, and palace intrigue (be it in their department, college, or discipline).
Too many faculty lose sight that while the job translates to a lifestyle, at the end of the day, it is a job (be it in their department, college, or discipline).
Too many faculty lose sight that when their job stops that the world will continue (esp. their department, college & discipline).
The faculty that navigate the transition from academic life to post-academic life well seem to have hobbies. They have a broader perspective on life.
The happy giants take time to round out that last academic paper with a nice gift to themselves - be it a scotch or a nice meal.
The unhappy giants worry about rankings, the next paper, & keeping power - never letting go - until they have to.
Choose the path to happiness.
Post-tenure.
Take some time to develop a broader perspective, find some hobbies that are sustainable.
Take some time to find an author you love, to learn to cook something new, to take up something outside - hiking or gardening anyone?
Take a (non-business) trip, stay up howling at the moon, and watch the sun rise.
Take a moment to invest in your community, make new friends where you live, & enjoy the local culture.
Best I can tell, the Giants that did, are much happier as they transition to post-academic life. Their Facebook posts are glorious.
We can all help to build a better academe - and still live happily ever after.
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