When Do You Plan to Stop Working? Why This Question Rubs Me the Wrong Way

At a recent gathering, I was asked a question that has increasingly become part of my reality: “When do you plan to stop working?” It’s a question that rubs me the wrong way, each time it’s asked.

Is it an ageist remark, even if it's not intended as one? Perhaps. Does it suggest there's an expiration date emblazoned on my forehead? I think not. The insinuation behind the question bothers me because it seems to suggest that there’s a point in time when I should consider myself “done.” But what if that’s not how I feel? What if the very notion of stopping is, in fact, entirely foreign to me?

My work product and output remain as sharp as ever. And now, I’ve chosen to pivot into writing more content—not because I’m nearing the end, but because I’m evolving, by choice.

The notion that anyone would feel entitled to tell you when it’s time to step back is something I can’t wrap my head around. In fact, it’s precisely because of questions like these that I feel more determined than ever to forge my own path. If you’ve ever faced a similar situation, here are five reasons you should plot your own course and not allow questions or comments from others to guide your path.

Your Life, Your Rules

The most important reason to chart your own course is that your life is yours to live. There’s no rulebook that says you must retire at a certain age or that you should stop working because someone else thinks it’s time. The decisions you make about your career and life should be based on what’s best for you, not on the expectations or assumptions of others. When you let others' questions dictate your choices, you hand over control of your own narrative.

Passion Doesn’t Expire

Passion for what you do is ageless. Whether you’re in your 20s, 50s, or beyond, if you wake up excited about your work, that’s all that matters. For many, the idea of retirement is about stepping away from something they no longer enjoy, but if you’re still passionate, why stop? Work doesn’t have to be a grind; it can be a source of joy, fulfillment, and purpose. If your work continues to energize you, there’s no reason to step away from it, regardless of what others may think.

The Value of Experience

Experience is something that cannot be bought, borrowed, or replaced. The longer you’re in your field, the more valuable your insights become. While others may see age as a reason to step back, I see it as a reason to push forward. There’s a depth of understanding and wisdom that only comes with years of practice. Your experience is your asset—one that grows more valuable with time. Why should that be something to retire from?

Personal Growth is Ongoing

The idea that growth stops at a certain age is a myth. We are all continually evolving, learning, and expanding our horizons. My pivot into writing more content isn’t a sign of winding down; it’s a sign of growth. I’m taking on new challenges, exploring new interests, and expanding my skill set. When you allow yourself to be guided by your own interests and passions, you continue to grow in ways that others may not expect. Why let anyone’s narrow view of what you “should” be doing limit your potential?

Redefining Success on Your Terms

Success is a deeply personal concept, and it changes over time. For some, success might mean climbing the corporate ladder; for others, it might mean striking a better work-life balance, or perhaps embarking on a new creative endeavor. What matters is that you define what success looks like for you at this stage in your life. Letting others’ opinions dictate your decisions could lead you to chase a version of success that doesn’t resonate with you. Redefine success on your own terms and make decisions that reflect your personal and professional goals.