March 21, 2017CoachVickyLeave a comment
I was filling out my FERS Application for Deferred or Postponed Retirement. Page 2, Section F has four selections for the reduced percent of my annuity and the survivor amount for Richard should I precede him in death.
We have always thought we would not take a reduced amount on any of our retirements as we both have worked and have our own retirements.
Then I started thinking about how this cancer can affect my longevity. We called our Wells Fargo Investment Advisor, Brian. He told us what most people do and recommended the same for us. I said I did not want to have this conversation and Brian replied that “unfortunately, under the circumstances, we have to have this conversation.”
I know me. If I leave the planet early without believing I got the full measure of my retirement, I will be VERY UPSET. Therefore, to make sure this possible “upset” does not follow me into the next life, I am taking a reduced amount with a survivor benefit.
Cancer changes so many things in life. Those changes are beyond the disease itself. Coping with the disease and the treatments are minimal in comparison to how my values, my priorities, and my thoughts have changed.
I see life differently now. Every second of life is precious. I know life is not an infinite quantity … at least not this physical life on earth.
Leaders … How are you looking at life and those wonderful human beings you lead? How do help them understand their values and priorities?
-VhS