Work Optional: What’s Your Real Passion or Purpose—And Why Aren’t You Doing It?

So, you’re work optional. You’ve got the time. You’ve got the freedom. But here’s the big question—what are you actually doing with it?

A lot of people hit this phase and feel a little… stuck. You thought being done with work would feel like a vacation. But now, the days are wide open, and you’re realizing: I’m not sure what I really want to do.

Let’s be honest—finding your passion or purpose isn’t always this magical, lightbulb moment. It’s often messier than that. And even when you know what you love, something can still hold you back.

Let’s dig into why—and how to actually start doing the things that matter to you.

1. Are You Waiting for Permission?

When you’ve spent decades following routines, schedules, and expectations, it can be weird to suddenly not have anyone telling you what to do. You might be waiting for some kind of external green light to start living the life you really want.

But here’s the thing: you don’t need permission.

Always wanted to try photography, woodworking, or learning guitar? Buy the gear and start experimenting.
Dreamed of traveling solo? Book the flight—even if it feels scary.
Thought about starting a blog, podcast, or business? Dive in, even if it’s messy at first.

If you’re waiting for the “right time,” it’s now. Nobody’s coming to give you the go-ahead except you.

2. What’s Holding You Back?

Even when you know what you want, there are sneaky things that keep you from going for it. Let’s call them out:

Fear of Failing: You’re not at work anymore, so there’s no boss to impress or deadline to meet. Who cares if you mess up? That’s where the fun is.
Feeling Guilty About Spending Money or Time: After years of saving and being practical, it can feel weird to invest in something “just for you.” But this is why you saved.
Perfectionism: You don’t have to be great at something to enjoy it. Being bad at something new is actually a good sign—it means you’re learning.

3. Purpose Doesn’t Have to Be Big

Forget the idea that purpose has to be this grand, life-changing mission. It doesn’t. Your purpose could be as simple as:

Getting better at painting because it makes you feel alive.
Volunteering in your community because it connects you to people.
Spending time with family because that’s what fills your cup.

The goal isn’t to impress anyone—it’s to find what lights you up.

4. Still Not Sure What You’re Into? Try This.

If you’re staring at the blank calendar and feeling overwhelmed, start small:

Follow Curiosity: What’s something that’s always caught your attention? A random class? A topic you Google late at night? Start there.
Experiment Without Commitment: You don’t have to “find your passion” on day one. Try a cooking class, take a weekend road trip, or sign up for something weird and new.
Look Back to Move Forward: What did you love doing as a kid before work took over your life? Sometimes the stuff we loved back then holds clues now.

5. If You Know What You Love, Why Aren’t You Doing It?

This is the hard question. If you know what fires you up, why aren’t you diving in?

Too Busy? You’re retired. Time’s on your side.
Worried It’s Selfish? You’ve spent years working hard—this is your time.
Scared You’ll Look Silly? Good. That means you’re pushing yourself.

The only thing stopping you from doing what you love is you. And that’s great news—because it means you’re in control.

Bottom Line

Being work optional isn’t just about having the freedom not to work. It’s about having the freedom to create a life that’s 100% yours. Whether you’re rediscovering old passions, finding new ones, or figuring it all out as you go, this is your time to experiment, explore, and enjoy the ride. Let’s kick the fear of the unknown the curb with purpose!

In our next post, we’ll talk about how to stay motivated and keep your energy high when the excitement wears off—because even in retirement, you can hit a slump. But we’ve got ways to shake things up and keep life interesting. Stay tuned.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Vivian Investment Partners is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Any opinions are those of Mark Vivian and not necessarily those of Raymond James.