Seven months ago, I walked away from Corporate America and into retirement, or so I thought. I promised myself I would finally take it easy. No more back-to-back meetings, constant deadlines, or endless flights. Just time to breathe.
But here’s the truth, I’ve never been very good at “taking it easy.” What I’ve discovered is that retirement isn’t about slowing down, it’s about redirecting energy into the things that light you up and give life meaning.
Teaching and Shaping the Next Generation
One of the most rewarding surprises has been stepping into higher education. I teach at William Jessup University (online, undergraduate, and graduate courses) within the School of Business. Preparing students for their careers, whether in the private or public sector, reminds me that leadership isn’t just about what we achieve ourselves, but how we prepare others to thrive. Watching students grow in confidence and competence has been a gift.
What makes this chapter even more meaningful is that I can bring my full self to work. At Jessup, that means being able to openly live my faith, to pray with and for people, to share my testimony, and to create space for authentic connection. For the first time in my career, I feel I can be completely myself, and that authenticity has been both freeing and fulfilling.
Life on the Property, Goose Meets Duck
Not all my adventures have been in the classroom. Last time I shared that we hatched a goose, CaliGrl. Well, she’s grown into her own personality and still rules the property. Recently, Daisy the rescued mallard arrived, and much to CaliGrl’s dismay (or delight), Daisy has decided she’s found her new best friend.
And they’re not alone. Forty-two chickens, twenty-eight guinea fowl, twenty-two quails, a goose, and a duck make for some “fowl weathered” friends who keep us busy with daily care. Add to that twenty fruit trees that demand attention but reward us with jams, jellies, and syrup, and a garden that produces year-round, and it’s safe to say that life on the property is full, fruitful, and anything but quiet.
Life lessons come from unexpected places, and this lively mix of animals and harvest reminds me daily of resilience, consistency, and the joy of reaping what you sow.
Just as the land requires daily tending and rewards us with abundance, life at home has entered a new season too.
Becoming an Empty Nester
As much as the property keeps us busy, the house feels different these days. Son number three recently “flew the coop,” officially making us empty nesters. Each of my boys is finding his own path, and I couldn’t be prouder. One son is moving to the University of Oregon to pursue his doctorate, another will be graduating this fall, and the youngest is brewing up coffees as he works toward joining the fire service.
Watching them chase their dreams has been both bittersweet and inspiring, a reminder that just like the seasons on our property, life keeps moving forward, and each stage brings its own growth and reward.
Leading and Serving with Purpose
Another passion of mine has always been service. I am humbled to be serving my second and final term as President of Soroptimist International of Lincoln. Our mission, helping women and girls dream big, keeps me grounded in what truly matters. Empowerment begins with opportunity, and it’s a privilege to help create those opportunities. If you live in the Lincoln area and want to know more about being a Soroptimist, shoot me an email at stacyreathomas@gmail.com.
I’ve also joined the board of a nonprofit focused on foster children (programs for all ages). This work is close to my heart, and I’ll share more in the months ahead. What I know already is that making a difference doesn’t require a corporate title, it requires commitment and compassion.
A New Venture, Rea’s Coaching and Consulting
Perhaps the most exciting step has been establishing my own company, Rea’s Coaching and Consulting. This new chapter allows me to pour years of experience into something deeply personal. Leadership, communication, and career development are more than professional skills, they are lifelines for growth, confidence, and impact. Guiding others through coaching feels less like work and more like purpose. And focusing on small to medium businesses, individually owned, melts my heart.
Admittedly, I have been slow on marketing and getting online, but know it is coming. In fact, I already have two clients! More to come here and a formal launch in the next few months.
The Lesson in All of This
Retirement doesn’t mean “the end.” It means choice. It’s the opportunity to design a chapter that reflects who you are, what you care about, and how you want to give back.
For me, it has meant stepping into roles that combine joy, challenge, service, and faith. I have learned that true fulfillment comes when we align our lives with our values and live authentically, not just in what we do, but in who we are. This season has also taught me that God doesn’t waste experiences. Every chapter, from Corporate America to classrooms and chicken coops, has prepared me for what’s next.
So, if you’re standing at the edge of retirement (or even just dreaming about it), I encourage you to see it not as closing a book, but as starting a new one. The title is yours to write, and when you write it with purpose, faith, and authenticity, it becomes a life well-lived.
What about you? What chapter are you ready to write?
Happy Thursday all,
-srt
#Leadership #Coaching #CareerGrowth #FaithAtWork #WomenEmpowerment #Authenticity #LifeAfterCorporateAmerica #ReaCoaching&Consulting
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