Where did my semi-retirement go?
Hi all
Nobody, I expect, will be much surprised to learn that I am just as busy in semi-retirement as I was when I was a full-time academic. Still, I thought it would be worthwhile to figure out where those extra hours of free time went.
The answer turns out not to be so difficult. Semi-retirement cuts my standard working hours from 40 to 20, so I have about 3 hours extra per day.
First, I'm doing more exercise. I now have one set of exercises I do with Nancy most mornings, and another set either solo or with triathlon and running clubs I've joined. Taking account of preparation, travel to club training and recovery, that's probably 90 minutes extra a day.
Second, we are watching a bit more TV. Mostly,we are watching series on Binge and other streaming services, one hour-long episode per night. Having watched very little in the past, there's plenty to catch up on. We are currently on Season 2 of Succession. That's an extra 30 minutes or so.
Next, I'm doing a bit more work around the house. When we are spending time at the Sunshine Coast, I do most of the shopping and cooking. In Brisbane, I tend to revert back to academic mode, going in to the Uni at least occasionally. And we are also trying to visit Nancy's farm in the Atherton Tablelands from time to time. Overall, maybe 30 minutes a day.
Finally, I'm reading a bit more, mostly newsletters and magazines, but also a few more books, and spending a bit of time at the beach.
I still have hopes of freeing a bit more time once I finish with the book projects that are near cancellation and a couple of big commitments I have taken on, but long experiences suggests this is an illusion.
Best wishes
John