The recent Glastonbury headline act The Rolling Stones certainly gave me some Satisfaction. Mark Radcliffe introduced the band on BBC2, yes folks not for me the glamping, no I watched from the comfort of my armchair. Now Radcliffe is no stranger to the delights of Glastonbury, and it was he said the biggest crowd he had ever witnessed at this iconic festival. Not bad when you think that the Stones have been rocking for some 50 years!
I was fortunate enough to have seen them at their recent concert at Wembley, whereupon they increased their combined age when Eric Clapton joined them on stage for some Slowhand magic!
The Stones were recently criticised for the high price of their tickets. Or is this not just supply and demand? What it did highlight is the enthusiasm the public still have for Mick, Keef, Charlie and Ronnie.
Their continued success and that of their contemporaries such as The Who, Paul McCartney and Tom Jones led me to think: at what age do we become too old?
The economic downturn has seen Governments across the globe take the unprecedented step of raising the pensionable age. In an attempt to stem the flow of cash disappearing from their coffers, we have been told we are to work longer.
Now I am fortunate that with Comms Express I own a company that buys and supplies IT equipment. Fortunate for many reasons, not the least that for the most part, it is a pretty faceless existence for me. Yes, I meet clients and suppliers, but on the whole, there is not the pressure to conform as there is in many industries. I do not have that constant pressure to be down with the youth; if anything the experience my colleagues and I have gleaned over the years has and will continue to be of benefit.
But what of those professions where it isn’t looked on a favourable to be a certain age. Suddenly working longer may prove problematic. On the other hand, I know that there are many professions and jobs where it is indeed ‘work’. Where the means to an end is the monthly paycheck. So, again, to be told that you will now be required to work beyond your expected retirement age would I’m sure gall somewhat.
We know, of course, staying active keeps one in shape. Yet it is also helpful to keep the mind active for it to remain supple and agile. Studies have shown that engaging in intellectual activities and new experiences keeps the brain running efficiently. Certainly, we are living for longer so if working longer isn’t part of your particular game plan then finding something to stimulate would seem like a good idea.
Again I’m fortunate that here at Comms the team and I love what we do. I’m not sure I’ll still be rocking like the Stones et al. after 50 years, but most certainly I’ll enjoy it while I’ve got a spring in my step!
