I left my job as CEO of a large and growing company only two weeks ago.  Since that time, I have immersed myself into the world of sabbatical, retirement, family, fitness and friends.  It has rapidly become clear — I need to let go of my ego to make the most of MyLife2.0.

Within 24 hours of my retirement, my wife’s friends were congratulating her on having a ‘house bitch’.  That was a bit abrupt – within 24 hours I went from CEO to house bitch!  I asked my wife for a more gradual approach — maybe I could start by being her Assistant House Manager and see how it goes?!

However, my more helpful ego lesson was as I started taekwondo.  My 12-year-old son has been taking taekwando for a few years and is one belt from his black belt.  His efforts have stalled a bit lately so in my retirement I decided to join him, encourage him, and get some exercise as I start with a WHITE belt!  He has enjoyed having me go and I expect it is good for his self-esteem to see his father struggling with something he has already mastered.

Our taekwondo club is a wonderful organization taught by caring instructors who share a positive outlook in all they do.  One of the ways they teach respect is by requiring everyone to call each other “sir” and “ma’am” — not just to the instructors but to everyone.  It is not about a hierarchy, it is about mutual respect.  I love it — but here is where my ego went out the door!

One day, the lead instructor broke us into groups by belt and had a different black belt instructor help each group.  I was in a group of only two people, myself and an eight-year-old!  But that wasn’t all — the black belt instructor assigned to my group was SEVEN years old!

He LOVED teaching me as he tried to stay serious and coach me.  I obediently called out, “Yes, Sir!” upon each of his instructions and reflected on how ironic this was and how good it was for me to let go of my ego.  As CEO, I was used to directing individuals, teams, large organizations.  I may very well have been embarrassed to be seen obediently taking orders from a seven-year-old.  Yet, in retirement, I relished this experience.  I learned and enjoyed while this young man built his self-confidence.

“Yes, Sir!”  I said to my seven-year-old instructor!

During the class, as I wiped the sweat from my brow, I looked at my son practicing in his more senior group.  He was working diligently but snuck a quick look at me and smiled.  It was as if he was saying,   “L’eggo your Ego, Dad!”

I can’t wait for my first belt test — I hope to make my seven-year-old instructor and my twelve-year-old son proud.  They have already taught me so much!  What surprising insights have you gained when you take the time to reflect and learn from others in retirement?!