50s are the new 40s: why quitting isn't on their mind

Balancing careers, savings, and personal priorities as their second innings unfolds after 50

- Aprajita Sharma

People in their 50s are in a particularly vulnerable phase. Layoffs in this age group are becoming common, and with companies reluctant to hire them back, quinquagenarians face heavy responsibilities—funding children's higher education, caring for aging parents, and planning for retirement that is fast approaching. Unlike younger FIRE aspirants chasing early retirement, most simply want the security of working as long as possible.

"This generation has worked hard from a young age, often supporting their parents early on. Even if they earn well, their expenses are measured, and lifestyle creep rarely drives them. Among my 50+ clients, I don't see them seeking early retirement," Abhishek Kumar, founder of SahajMoney, a Sebi-registered investment advisory, said.

50s is the New 40s

For many, 50 years no longer marks the countdown to retirement. They see years of work ahead, though often on different terms. Kaushik Chakraborty (50), CHRO at a UK-based realty consulting firm, said: "I believe 60s are the new 40s. I see a long working life ahead of me. In my firm, there's no retirement age. From a government perspective, we follow statutory norms, but people are free to continue beyond that."

For him, upskilling is vital. "You can't predict what lies ahead. Keep pace with technology infusion in your industry. I'm confident I won't lose my job, but in a worst-case scenario, I know I can leverage my leadership and coaching experience to keep earning," he added.