Community Chat

[jeanlake]

Hi sweetea -- time is on your side -- it's also against you. You only have 2 years, now how do you survive? My business and conflict management textbook training states when your patience is gone, your back is against the wall and your trust is limited, it's time to go into this mode at work -- Be silent. Be safe.

This is a smart way to make it through the next 2 years. Finding a new job at age 64 is possible, but may be more stress than what you're under. I hope you can transfer within the organization. In the meantime at work - show up, do your due diligence and -- Be silent. Be safe. Be wise.

Find things outside of work to make yourself happy. Plan things you can look forward to. Retirement is a short time away!

[focksie]

It is very possible they are trying to get you to retire now by making life miserable for you. It's just the harsh reality. They can hire a younger person for much less money. For your protection, I would write down your job description and add in all the additional responsibilities above and beyond what you were hired for. Then if push comes to shove, you can present it to your manager and HR.

If you absolutely need to work another 2 years it's important to try to take things in stride for your own mental health, which MUST be the most important thing in anyone's life. Try to go in with the attitude that you are a good worker and can only handle so much work in one day. Try to relax instead of fretting about getting things done. Hate to sound cliche but one thing at a time and one foot in front of the other. That's the best way to cope with an overwhelming workload.

I was forced to retire early because of a personal situation at home. I have no regrets. I'm not even able to collect SS yet. If you have some money saved and you know how to live modestly and save, it's very doable to retire early. I'm leaning towards collecting SS sooner rather than later because like John said, we don't know how long we have.

If it is, indeed, your employer's intention to force you out, don't forget to negotiate a good severance package for yourself.

[this is my nic]

My husband celebrated 25 years with a BIG computer company in Dec., letter from the president of the company thanking him for his years of service, etc. The following June he was downsized with many others of about the same age - over 50. I don't know how they got away with it, there are laws about age discrimination which this obviously was.

Looks like the same may be the case for the OP. I'll be when she leaves, they hire a much younger person to take her place.