Tag: emotions

Retirement Transitioning Advice from AI?

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Season Greetings and Happy New Year from your Pennsylvania Music Educators Association State Retired Member Coordinator. Best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2025!

First, on Christmas Eve, here are a few announcements geared to PA music educators… those who have retired from full-time teaching and anyone considering retirement over the next one to five years.

Back by popular demand (or is that just ego and in my head?), we will offer the session “Retirement 101 – the Who, What, When, Where, Why and How of Retiree Stories & Strategies” on Friday, April 11, 2025 (3:30 p.m.) during the PMEA Annual Conference at the Kalahari Resort in the Poconos. A guest panel of PMEA Retired Members will assist and offer their advice answering key questions like the following:

  1. How have you found happiness and success in retirement?
  2. What “new” hobbies, volunteer projects, trips, family connections, and encore careers have you been exploring?
  3. What did you do to reinvent yourself and how did you satisfy those essential “big three” goals of post-full-time employment: finding purpose, structure, and community?
  4. How did you navigate the early phases of retirement? imagination, anticipation, liberation, etc.
  5. What were some of the transitional “ups and downs” you experienced and how did you cope with them?
  6. What are you still doing in music and education?

We are looking for more PMEA retiree volunteers who are planning to attend the conference to join “expert panelists” Rick Coulter, Jeffrey Dent, Dan Klingbeil, Chuck Neidhardt, Louise Victor, and Rich Victor. (Just email me if you’re interested.)

Retired Members are a valuable resource to PMEA. Many of us already serve on PMEA Councils and in District or State official positions. All of us in the profession benefit from the sharing of their extensive “boots-on-the-ground” experiences and wisdom. At the upcoming conference, Retired Members can serve as Presiding Chairs and introduce a session/concert or two. In addition, plans are also underway to sponsor (possibly on Thursday, April 9) a “coffee & conversation” corner or an “ask the expert” lounge. Spaces and the schedule are packed, but if it is possible, Executive Director Abi Young is trying to fit in an informal sitting area with retirees and mentors as “friendly folks” to serve as “gurus” for PCMEA members, newcomers to a music education specialty, or recent transfers to the field. Won’t you join us?

A longstanding tradition, we will be treated to a PMEA Retired Member Breakfast on Friday morning. (Just check the box on the registration form if you are coming… and, by the way, the conference fee is only $20 for Retired Members! What a deal!)

Why Attend the PMEA Annual Conference?

“For some of us, it’s a just chance to catch-up with our colleagues, see our friends, and socialize. Others are more focused and take advantage of the near-perfect opportunity to network with other professionals, perhaps seeking new working relationships, partnerships, or even employment. Many are on a look-out for newly published music, that perfect music lesson or teaching strategy, technology tools, fund-raisers, advance educational venues, or much-needed equipment to purchase for our ensembles or classrooms. Most come to hear/see the “state of the art” in music education – concerts, demonstrations, keynote speeches, panel discussions, exhibits, research presentations, and workshops. PMEA’s PD Council would likely submit that the primary purpose of a conference is for professional self-improvement… What did Stephen Covey call it? His Habit #7 of “sharpening the saw” – to build a balanced program of self-renewal in the four areas of your life: physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual. Covey would insist we embrace “the process that empowers us to move on an upward spiral of growth and change, of continuous improvement.” So, in short, conferences help us “grow” – to revive, re-inspire, re-energize, rejuvenate, re-direct, and re-motivate all of us – pre-service, active in-service, and retired teachers towards making successful new connections, updating our knowledge & skills, and forming new goals.”  – PMEA Retired Member Network eNEWS Winter 2024

In addition, Kalahari Resort boasts “the world’s largest indoor water park,” the perfect place to bring family members to enjoy… especially (grand)children, (grand)nieces/nephews, etc.

Next month’s retirement blog by guest author Sierra Powell

One final announcement: In several weeks at this blog-site, we plan to feature a new guest blog entitled “Five Things You Need for a Comfortable Retirement” by Sierra Powell, along with updates of other resources for “living the dream!” See you next year?

OK, What is that “AI Thing?”

This 69-year old educator who has spent more than five decades in fostering creative self-expression in his students is fervently opposed to artificial intelligence. Actually, I thought I was allergic to “AI!” Every time I receive an Apple iPhone update or some new download for my computer, I complain, “Why have they moved that button? It doesn’t look or work the same! Why does everything have to change every month?” Slow down, techies!

However, to dabble in this new technology everyone’s talking about, I printed in my last PMEA Retired Member Network eNEWS on page one a sample article (click here for the Winter issue) compiled by AI Overview (Google). I shared this with an adult violin student from my Saturday orchestra who decided to show me the power of AI (not the old AI I am more familiar with – artistic intelligence!). She used her subscription to a ChatGPT to process my brief outline on the topic “retirement transitioning.” Below is the result generated from a few of my random notes. Created in the first person, AI matched my writing style, a chatty/informal letter printed for soon-to-retire colleagues along with research citations. Frankly, it scares me how close this sounds like something I could have composed! Can you tell it was artificially generated? Does this mean we will we have to teach this old dog (fox) new tricks?

Check out these valuable retirement hints courtesy of ChatGPT!

The Retiree Life: Navigating the Art of Reinvention & Emotional Balance

Here with some reflections, tips, and maybe even a little nudge for us all as we continue this grand adventure called retirement. Whether you’re still finding your rhythm or already feel like a pro at this, there’s always room to reflect, grow, and laugh along the way.

This week, let’s talk about something near and dear to every retiree’s journey: reinventing yourself and coping with the emotional ups and downs that come with this new chapter.

Reinventing Yourself: A Second Act Worth Applauding

Remember when we taught our students to embrace creativity and adapt to change? Turns out, retirement demands the same skills. It’s no longer just about what you did—it’s about who you are.

Reinvention isn’t about completely overhauling your identity. Think of it as expanding your repertoire. Studies show that retirees who actively pursue new interests or roles report higher life satisfaction (Wang et al., 2011). Whether it’s picking up the instrument you haven’t touched in decades, volunteering, traveling, or even starting a small business, the key is to stay engaged.

Here’s a thought experiment: What did you always wish you had time to do but never could because of lesson planning, rehearsals, or concerts? Now’s your chance. I’ve recently heard about retirees dabbling in everything from watercolor painting to writing mystery novels. One retiree even became a beekeeper—talk about a sweet second act!

(From past blogs, the Retirement 101 session, and Retired Member Network eNEWS reviews)

The Emotional Journey: Ups, Downs, and Everything in Between

Let’s not sugarcoat it: retirement is a mixed bag. There’s the freedom (hooray!), but also the occasional pang of loss—of identity, routine, or the camaraderie we had in our teaching careers.

The good news? You’re not alone. Research by Pinquart and Schindler (2007) highlights how important it is to acknowledge these feelings rather than sweep them under the rug. Adjusting to retirement is a process, and it’s okay to feel a little off-balance at times.

Here are a few tried-and-true strategies to help you navigate the emotional terrain:

  • Stay Connected: Loneliness can creep in when you least expect it. Keep up with PMEA activities, or start a retirees’ coffee group. Who better to laugh with about the time your marching band got rained out?
  • Practice Mindfulness: Before you roll your eyes, hear me out! Even just five minutes of quiet reflection a day can reduce stress and boost mood (Chopra et al., 2020).
  • Find Meaning: Volunteering or mentoring can give you a sense of purpose that’s deeply fulfilling. You’ve got a wealth of wisdom—share it!

AI of the future?

The Bottom Line

Retirement isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. And like any good road trip, it comes with unexpected detours, scenic overlooks, and, yes, the occasional pothole. The trick is to embrace it all with curiosity and a sense of humor.

If you’re struggling, remember: reinventing yourself doesn’t happen overnight. Take it one day at a time, and don’t be afraid to reach out for support—whether it’s from family, friends, or your fellow PMEA retirees.

Let’s keep the conversation going. What’s your “second act”? Have you discovered a new hobby or way to cope with the emotional shifts of retirement? Shoot me an email or share your story at our next meeting. Together, we’ll continue to learn, grow, and make this chapter one to remember.

Until next time, keep smiling and stay curious!

References:

Wang, M., Henkens, K., & van Solinge, H. (2011). Retirement adjustment: A review of theoretical and empirical advancements. American Psychologist, 66(3), 204–213.

Pinquart, M., & Schindler, I. (2007). Changes of life satisfaction in the transition to retirement: A latent-class approach. Psychology and Aging, 22(3), 442–455.

Chopra, A., Anthonisen, S., & Reeves, A. (2020). The role of mindfulness in retirement satisfaction. Mindfulness in Aging Journal, 7(4), 312–320.

PKF

© 2024 Paul K. Fox

COVID-19 vs. New Year’s Resolutions?

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How to “Make a Difference” in 2021

Of those who make a New Year’s resolution, after 1 week 75% are still successful in keeping it. After two weeks, the number drops to 71%. After 1 month, the number drops again to 64%. And after 6 months, 46% of people who make a resolution are still successful in keeping it. In comparison, of those people who have similar goals but do not set a resolution, only 4% are still successful after 6 months.

New Year’s Resolutions Statistics (Updated 2020) from Discover Happy Habits

Although we may be seeing the first signs of “the light at the end of the tunnel” with the distribution of the vaccines, coronavirus still has its grip on us… off-the-chart infection rates, record-breaking hospital admissions, schedule disruptions, restrictions on restaurants and small businesses, mandatory mask wearing, social distancing, precautionary self-isolation, etc. By all accounts, mindfulness, self-care, patience, and a positive outlook for the future are keys to making personal and professional goals as the pandemic rages on…

This article spotlights an age-old but usually neglected perspective – “think first” before you formulate any New Year’s Resolutions! For this to really work, you need a little research and reflection… and then COMMIT TO YOUR GOALS! Read on!

Start Out by Being S.M.A.R.T.

Admittedly, 44+ years in teaching has affected how I view goal-setting – “make it intention!” Adopt the often published S.M.A.R.T. approach to any plan. Make goals that are…

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • Time-Bound

What goals do you want to satisfy in 2021? “Keep it simple” and S.M.A.R.T. Like lesson plans, write your resolution(s) in behavioral terms… “by the end of this class, the students will…” For example, the easiest way to limit the intake of fried food in your diet is to write on a post-it note, “I will not eat anything fried this week” and place it on your bathroom mirror.

A lot of these resolutions fail because they’re not the right resolutions. And a resolution may be wrong for one of three main reasons: 1) It’s a resolution created based on what someone else (or society) is telling you to change. 2) It’s too vague. 3) You don’t have a realistic plan for achieving your resolution.

How to Make and Keep a New Year’s Resolution by Jen A. Miller (New York Times)

Review the Usual Ones…

According to Brad Zomick in his GoSkills blog, these are the most common New Year’s Resolutions:

  • Exercise more
  • Lose weight
  • Get organized
  • Learn a new skill or hobby 
  • Live life to the fullest
  • Save more money / spend less money
  • Quit smoking
  • Spend more time with family and friends
  • Travel more
  • Read more

Just as important to WHAT you choose is HOW you approach it. In his article, Zomick provides a “how-to” roadmap to success, if you follow his steps:

  1. Mentally prepare for change.
  2. Set a goal that motivates you.
  3. Limit resolutions to a manageable amount.
  4. Be specific.
  5. Break up big goals into smaller goals.
  6. Write down your goals.
  7. Share your resolutions with others.
  8. Automate when possible.
  9. Review your resolution regularly.
  10. If you fall off track, get back on quick.

Do these recommendations sound familiar? They should if you are a disciple of the aforementioned S.M.A.R.T plan. Also, the concept of “writing down your goals” should ring a bell if you recall the supposed 1979 Harvard Business School MBA Study on Goal Setting (urban legend?) reviewed by Wanderlust Worker here:

Have you set written goals and created a plan for their attainment? Prior to graduation, it was determined that 84% of the entire class had set no goals at all. 13% of the class had set written goals but had no concrete plans. 3% of the class had both written goals and concrete plans. The results? Well, you’ve likely somewhat guessed it. 10 years later, the 13% of the class that had set written goals but had not created plans, were making twice as much money as the 84% of the class that had set no goals at all. However, the apparent kicker is that the 3% of the class that had both written goals and a plan, were making ten times as much as the rest of the 97% of the class. 

The Harvard MBA Study on Goal Setting from Wanderlust Worker

Whether the Harvard (or Yale) study is fact or faction is probably irrelevant. The point here is that to improve the odds for accomplishing our goals, we need to take the time to write them down, announce our intentions (your spouse or significant-other), and define the details with “action plans.”

The Glass Is Half Full

Have you heard the joke about the identical twins, one an optimist and the other a pessimist?

A psychiatrist has one son who is a total pessimist, and another who is a complete optimist.  He decides on an experiment.  For Christmas he fills the pessimist’s room with hundreds of beautifully wrapped gifts, and dumps a heap of horse manure in the optimist’s room. On Christmas morning he sees the pessimist boy sitting motionless at the center of his room, eyeing his gifts suspiciously. But over in the optimist’s room he sees his boy filled with joy, digging happily in the odorous pile. He asks the kid what he’s doing and he answers:  “Daddy, with all this horse dung, there’s gotta be a pony in here someplace.”

The Center for Optimism

It’s time to cheer-up, look to the future, and embrace HOPE for tomorrow!

Are you kidding? You want me to “put on a happy face” after all the pandemic has done? YES!

One remedy for “losing the blue funk” is to reject all “blame and complain” speech or behavior! It is so easy to get caught up in negativity… family adversity or “challenges” of a medical or employment nature, or simply being forced to remain distant from each other, daily news media reports about COVID-19, political dissension and the polarization of viewpoints, angry rants on social media, etc. literally fanning the flames of an unprecedented perpetual global “bad mood!” I even found myself in the throes of periodic bouts of public distemper, griping on Facebook about a Dial for Men product that made my hair dry (my FB friends responded, “Thanks for the heads-up” – ha, ha!), or grumbling about the roll-out of new revisions of WordPress and Constant Contact program editors that are not backwards-compatible nor fail to support the “look and feel” of previous versions. The effect of exposure to or expression of all of these “B” words (badmouth, beef, bellyache, bemoan, bicker, b*tch) is to make you even more bitter… not fostering the “can-do’s” for taking steps towards helping others, self-renewal, or an optimistic attitude.

Do you find your emotions swinging rapidly from sadness to elation to anger or fear during the lockdown? If your mood is all over the place at the moment, that’s completely understandable. This is not a normal situation. It’s a hugely disruptive, sudden change to our daily lives that nobody was prepared for. It isn’t surprising that many people are experiencing unpredictable moods. “It is going to affect everyone’s mood in many, and sometimes unexpected, ways,” reveals psychotherapist Mark Bailey. “Whether it’s worry, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, discombobulated, angry and even perhaps unexpected emotions like relief as we accept some of our current situation, it’s useful to know that as we experience one emotion it doesn’t nullify or negate another.”

COVID-19: How to Manage Mood Swings... by Natalie Healey

Get Inspired by Good Role Models and “Positive Gurus”

Many music educators attend the keynote addresses at state MEA/NAfME conferences to “recharge their batteries.” A few of my favorite “master motivators” are Tim Lautzenheiser, Peter Boonshaft, and Fran Kick. As a sample, check out this video (sponsored by MusicFirst) that featured “Dr. Tim” – One Person Can Make a Difference!

Who can have a positive influence on us or serve as a “catalyst for change” to help us realize our resolutions? Practically anyone! I bumped into this provocative article by Professor Dr Ger Graus: Good Role Models – How Has COVID-19 Changed Pupils’ Career Aspirations? He relates these criteria “to elevate a person or profession to role model status” (at least in the eyes of a child) – possibly an excellent framework for creating your plan.

  1. Demonstrate passion for what you do and have the capacity to infect others with it.
  2. Show a clear set of values and live them in their world. Lead by example. Children admire people who act in ways that support their beliefs. It helps them understand how their own values are part of who they are and how they might seek fulfilling roles as adults.
  3. Demonstrate commitment to community. Be others-focused as opposed to self-focused. Freely give your time and talents to benefit people.
  4. Show selflessness and acceptance of others who are different to you. Be fair.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to overcome obstacles. Young people admire those who show them that success is possible.

Someone who has recently become inspirational to me is the wonderfully uplifting Lesley Moffat, probably an expert on the search for “mindfulness” in personal life and even during her band warmups. In my opinion, her transformative stories provide the blueprint for happiness and wellbeing! She now has two published books (you need to read both) – I Love My Job But It’s Killing Me, and Love the Job, Lose the Stress, and if you are still teaching music full-time, you need to peruse her website: https://mpowerededucator.com/. For a good laugh, view her recent “rap” – Moffat’s HamJam for Band – for which she performed for her music students.

Apply the concepts of social and emotional learning (SEL), EMPATHY, and “corona kindness” to yourself and loved-ones! Seek out advice from a few of these experts: Manju Durairaj, Scott N. Edgar, Bob Morrison, and Edward Varner.

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. The key components of SEL are self-awareness, social awareness, responsible decision-making, self-management, and relationship skills.

Finding Sanctuary – Social and Emotional Learning and Visual and Performing Arts by Edward Varner

Sum it Up – Fox’s “Top-Ten Tips”

  1. Renew your efforts to intentionally reach-out, connect, and engage with people, albeit virtually for now.
  2. Focus on the things you can control.
  3. Remind yourself about the good things in your life and your personal resilience.
  4. Start small and change one behavior at a time.
  5. Don’t beat yourself up when things get a little rocky
  6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
  7. Seek creative new ways to reduce your stress.
  8. Exercise, meditate, go outside, and plan better meals.
  9. Share your experiences with family and friends.
  10. Implement one or two S.M.A.R.T. goals and embrace the “spirit” of self-improvement.

It’s easy to become an idealist when the new year rolls around, but it’s important to remember that New Year’s resolutions are ultimately a tool to help you grow into the person you want to be. Take some time this New Year’s Eve to really consider who you want to be in the future, and then employ S.M.A.R.T. goals to help you fulfill your vision. Making a resolution to live your life with purpose and passion is a beautiful and exciting thing, not something to dread.

How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions by Using S.M.A.R.T. Goals by Mary McCoy

PKF

© 2020 Paul K. Fox

Resources

Credits:

iStock.com photos (in order): “2021” #1280953227 by phototechno, “SMART Goals” #1134658098 by BrianAJackson, “New Years Goals List 2021” #1266648329 by Olena Sakhnenko, “Half Empty to Half Full” #1128990168 by Fokusiert, “Lead by Example” #849367144 by Michail_Petrov-96, and “2021 Happy New Year” #1273431483 by Weedezign

“Happy Face” VectorStock.com/467693