Comment by burner420042
4 days ago
You're describing my father. Now that he's retired his lack of hobbies is really catching up to him. His only hobby has been working and I've noted this about him since I was an adolescent and decided then as something I would not emulate.
A few times I've quit a FAANG job with no plan for after other than to wander, and both times the lack of professional competition meant not just coasting horizontally but that I was actually lowering myself somehow. Hard to explain, and I don't fully understand it.
I also noticed most people, especially women, determine your value by your 'right now'. While intentionally unemployed I'd answer truthfully and with a smile, 'I'm unemployed!' which visibly confused people.
life is phase oriented
when i’m working i find retired people boring
when im taking 6+ month break i find the nervous energy of employed people annoying
ultimately, comfort comes from being around like minded people
then again seeking comfort rings hollow to me, even though it’s quite enjoyable in the moment.
This is especially true around NYC, SF, LA. The culture is built around accomplishment and work identity.
Much less true in other places (e.g. Midwest), where community / taking care of others is valued.
>While intentionally unemployed I'd answer truthfully and with a smile, 'I'm unemployed!' which visibly confused people.
The proper term is "Funemployed"
"gainfully unemployed" is a fun one to use.
The people worth knowing were the ones enthusiastically socializing with me after uttering that phrase.