TURNING 60 should not mean you are ready to retire, says Ashok Chand.
The High St, Suva, resident who celebrated his 62nd birthday this year said he chose to continue working and enjoy life.
Mr Chand, who has 23 years of experience in sales and management, said hindsight has taught him a lot.
“No matter what field you are in, work hard and have pride. If you work hard, you will never be let down and success will come to you,” he said.
Mr Chand started his career with Nitina & Company in 1998 and today he is the manager of the company’s Suva and Nausori outlets.
After about two and a half decades in the sales game, Mr Chand says he has no intention of hanging up his boots and would continue to work until his body gives up.
“I am not even thinking of retiring any time soon. I am fit and healthy and will continue to work until my body says enough.”
Mr Chand said 60 was not an age for people to retire and sit unproductively at home.
“People still go strong at this age and it is not wise to leave your job and stay at home.
“If you are sick, then that is a different case but if you are able to work and are still strong, then my advice is that you continue working.”
Mr Chand said people in their 60s should not consider themselves ‘old’.
“Never think that you are old at that age or any age.
“I believe 60 is the age where people are matured and are able to share their knowledge and utilise their skills even more effectively than they have done before.
“So I encourage my peers to continue working and to enjoy their life.”
Mr Chand also believes Fijians should move away from the mindset of depending on their children for everything once they reached retirement age.
“This is why I urge people who are 60 or more to do something so you continue to earn.
“Then you will not have to ask for money or anything from your children and set a good platform for them to learn about being self-sufficient.
“So if you are blessed with good health, continue to work and keep yourself healthy.”
Mr Chand encouraged retirees to do something to keep themselves busy, healthy and happy.
“Even backyard gardening is something. Having a walk daily is also helpful.”
