On these forums, one of the things suggested as a fulfilling post-retirement activity is volunteering. I am essentially retired and spouse has just joined me. I took the path of reducing my working hours gradually over the last 5 years until I barely work anymore (only for one client when asked intermittently). The kids had left the nest. And I became involved with 2 different arts/cultural non-profits when friends asked me come help out. I'm now on the Board for 1. Since Covid, all my volunteer time is done remotely. I've dropped back to essentially keeping up both organizations websites, but that has grown in scope.
Fulfilling? Yes, often. Met new people? Yes, in one organization especially. With the other, the pleasant acquaintances have never led to anything outside the group work sessions (back when we could meet in person).
Last week, I was in a Zoom board meeting that was dragging on and on and going down ridiculous rabbit holes, when I had flashbacks to what I most hated about corporate life. This is as bad as work, I thought. Why was I doing this, I wondered. And this week, I've received emails from both organization asking me to do something that is complicated/time consuming that I don't want to do and in one case, would have to learn how to do.
So how does one keep volunteer work in balance? How do you keep it from growing into "work"? Covid has hurt the missions of both of these groups and I would feel guilty just walking away.
And part of me wonders, if I don't do this volunteer stuff, what will I do with my time?