As a young person, I’ve been thinking about this a lot. Is the plan really to spend four or five decades working for a paycheck, only reaching retirement when our joints ache and our minds aren’t as sharp? While some folks certainly enjoy their careers, I’m certain many others do not. We spend a third of our lives asleep and another third at work, leaving the remaining hours for chores, commuting, and basic self-care—only to do it all over again. I appreciate what I’ve got, but it feels a bit depressing that this is the default path. I’m not against working, but 50 years feels like an eternity. Sure, you can find happiness in the routine or try to start a business to break free. Still, I wish retirement came sooner, while we’re still physically capable of exploring the world without the dread of Monday mornings. I suppose that’s just the reality for most of us. 
What are you talking about? I’m only 37 and I’m already dealing with aches and pains xD
Capitalism is just wonderful, isn’t it?
That’s exactly the story we’ve been conditioned to believe. Get an education, find a career, marry, raise children, pay for insurance and taxes—be a compliant member of society. Buy the house, the fancy car, the big screen, and the comfortable couch. Give your prime years to institutions and then fade away. I’m convinced this script is pushed by those in power because it serves their interests, not the individual’s, which explains why so many people in places like the U.S. have material wealth but are deeply miserable. People chase things they’re told will bring joy, but often those things don’t lead to true fulfillment. I’ll probably get flak for saying this because people are invested in the narrative they’ve been fed, acting like programmed drones. From childhood, we’re taught that the early bird gets the worm and that productivity equals worth. We’re conditioned to support a system that benefits others. It’s hard to see, but you can actually forge your own path, contribute to the world, and still live outside the rigid expectations of institutions. As long as you’re a good person who treats others and animals with kindness, your life belongs to you, regardless of what society tells you to believe.
I’m dealing with stage 4 cancer, so my working days are likely coming to an end soon. I stayed active, exercising or playing sports five days a week from my teens into my 40s, right up until my diagnosis. My plan was to be in peak condition for retirement, but that doesn’t seem to matter much now. I’ll keep working until my last breath if it provides for my family after I’m gone. My life’s true calling is supporting them. I didn’t realize this until I got married at 30, but I’m thankful for the 14 years I’ve had with that perspective. If you find a meaningful purpose, even the toughest challenges become manageable because you’re serving something bigger than yourself.