9. So what's it going to be?

Today, the pension numbers were presented to me, the options were explained, and coincidentally I had a call from an agency asking if I would like to be considered for a short-term contract. I also managed to buy the wrong hinges for a cupboard door, and saw my grandsons for 2 hours this afternoon. It's been quite the ride!

So, after all the do I/don't I questions, the occasional sleepless night, cold sweats, doomsday scenarios I've repeatedly mulled over, the momentary elation about retiring that I felt, and the nervous twitch I've developed whenever someone goes anywhere near discussing 'a fixed income for the rest of your life', I've finally made my decision. David Ryan and Thérèse Charlton, I partially blame you for this, after talking so much sense about the word 'retirement':

a) I have triggered my eligible pensions. 

b) I will not proactively look for work because I'm not wholly dependent on earning money every month in order to pay the bills now, BUT if an interesting opportunity presents itself, I'll definitely listen to what the offer is.

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In case any of you reading this are remotely interested in what I class as interesting (and please don't think of me as arrogant or fussy; it's just that time feels increasingly precious):

* Shorter-term assignment are preferred. Ad-hoc work is also of interest.

* Nine months max as a guideline. Don't waste time with "It could last 2-3 years". 

* Project recovery work = yum. Plodding projects = dumb. Coaching/assurance = hmm.
* Part-time is good, but don't say it's part-time if it needs full-time hours.
- No to "What's your minimum day rate?": just tell me what the offer is.
- Commutable (there and back) in a day, and I don't mind if it's a loooooong day.
- Regular overnights away from home? No thank you. 
- Betting companies or the tobacco industry? Don't even call me.

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And now, I'm going to post this on LinkedIn and then prep for the next author event. The last one was a hoot'n'a'half!

Maybe I'll see some of you over the next 20-30 years (as my friend, Ahmed, would say, "God willing of course", but don't get me started about religion!) or maybe I won't. Whatever the outcome, have a lovely weekend and thanks for reading.