Introduction: The Wealth of a Life Well-Lived

Imagine Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, at your retirement celebration. Would he raise a glass to the old retirement myths—“65 is old,” “retirement means not working,” “retirement is only about money,” “a life of ease is the ultimate goal,” and “you have to be retired to do what you love”? Absolutely not. Smith, who saw human flourishing as a lifelong pursuit of purpose, productivity, and contribution, would see these myths as relics of a bygone era. In a world where lifespans stretch and knowledge grows, Smith would urge us to rethink retirement as the next stage in our Hero’s Journey—a time to invest in passion, not just pensions.

Adam Smith’s Philosophy: Work, Purpose, and Human Flourishing

Adam Smith believed that the “annual labour of every nation” is the true source of wealth—not just for economies, but for individuals. He argued that meaningful work, creativity, and the pursuit of purpose are essential to human happiness and progress5. For Smith, work was never just about money; it was about dignity, contribution, and the joy of using one’s talents for the common good. He saw the division of labor and the pursuit of new skills as engines of growth—not just for nations, but for each of us as we age and evolve.

Smith would reject the old myths of retirement because:

• 65 is old: Smith understood that as society advances and health improves, the idea of a fixed “old age” becomes outdated. He’d see 65 as a milestone, not a finish line.
• Retirement means not working: Smith would argue that withdrawal from all activity is a recipe for decline. He believed continued engagement—intellectual, social, and creative—was vital for a flourishing life1.
• Retirement is only a money issue: For Smith, wealth was a means to an end, not the end itself. The true measure of a life is in purpose, relationships, and ongoing growth.
• A life of ease is the ultimate goal: Smith warned that endless leisure leads to stagnation. True contentment comes from meaningful activity, not idleness.
• You have to be retired to do what you love: Smith would ask: Why wait? The pursuit of your passions is a lifelong journey, not a reward at the end.

The Hero’s Journey: Adam Smith’s Call to Passion

Let’s reframe retirement as Adam Smith might—through the lens of the Hero’s Journey:

• Ordinary World: You live by the old myths, counting down to a finish line that no longer fits the times.
• Call to Adventure: A longing for purpose or a new challenge stirs within you.
• Refusal of the Call: Doubts arise—“Am I too old? Is it too late?”
• Meeting the Mentor: Smith’s wisdom (and your own curiosity) nudges you to question the old story.
• Crossing the Threshold: You step beyond the myths, seeking new meaning and contribution.
• Tests, Allies, Enemies: You face skepticism and inertia, but also find new allies and opportunities.
• Approach to the Inmost Cave: You confront your deepest fears about relevance and value.
• Ordeal: You risk comfort for meaning—learning, growing, and giving in new ways.
• Reward: You discover renewed purpose, connection, and joy.
• The Road Back: You integrate your passions into daily life, inspiring others.
• Resurrection: You realize that passion never retires—only outdated narratives do.
• Return with the Elixir: You share your story, becoming a mentor for others on their journey.

Why Adam Smith Would Champion “Passion Never Retires”

Smith would be the first to say: Passion is the engine of a meaningful life. Retirement, as traditionally conceived, is an artificial finish line. When you pursue what you love, stay curious, and share your gifts, you embody the vitality and virtue Smith valued. The true wealth of nations—and individuals—is found in a life of ongoing contribution and growth.

Conclusion: Write Your Own Wealth of Nations

The old myths about retirement are fading. In their place is a new story—one where every chapter, at every age, is an opportunity for growth, joy, and contribution. Adam Smith would urge you to step boldly into this story, to keep creating, connecting, and contributing. Passion never retires, and neither should you.

Questions for Your Own Hero’s Journey

• Where in your life have you accepted old myths about aging or retirement?
• What passions or dreams are calling you to a new adventure?
• Who are your mentors and allies for this next chapter?
• What “ordeal” are you willing to face to reclaim purpose and joy?
• How will you share your wisdom and story with others?

Story Coaching Offer: Your Passion Never Retires Journey

Ready to challenge the old myths and write your own legend?
Join Peter de Kuster’s “Passion Never Retires” Story Coaching—a transformative journey to rediscover your purpose, reignite your passions, and create a life and work you love at any age.

Special Offer:

• Full Story Coaching Session (2 hours): €195 (excl. btw)
• Express Session (1 hour): €120 (excl. btw)
  Contact: peter@wearesomeone.nl

You are the hero, the storyteller, and the legend in the making. The next chapter is yours to write.