Yearning for Past Glory: The Longed-for Comforts of a Former Television Celebrity - Former television personality reminisces about past career's aspect he misses the most.
Rewritten Article:
Ulrike von der Groeben: Daring Yet Naive - A Retrospective Journey into Post-Career Life:
Ulrike von der Groeben (68), a veteran sports expert at "RTL aktuell," dived into retirement unexpectedly in 2024. After her exit, she penned the book "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" (available from May 7, ZS Verlag), a blend of autobiography, expert interviews, and retirement guidance. In an exclusive chat with spot on news, Ulrike discusses her post-RTL experiences, the advice she'd offer, and her interactions with ex-colleagues.
Key Insights from Your Book, Ulrike:
Ulrike von der Groeben: My writing journey has been enlightening. I realized that I had given retirement little thought beforehand, which was daring, but also a tad naive. Yet, I remain optimistic that my retirement years will be fulfilling. However, I'd advise others to tackle financial planning earlier, especially in the graying stage regarding finances. While certain matters can still be addressed nearer to retirement, taking an ahead-of-time approach is beneficial. This planning also extends to fitness and health—as Professor Froboese emphasizes in the book: There's never a wrong time, but those who start earlier have an edge.
Had Financial Planning Been Important to You Earlier?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I'm quite cautious when it comes to finances. My husband, however, was more adventurous. He wanted to purchase a property earlier, especially when interest rates were favorable. I, on the other hand, was more conservative, focusing on paying off our own house. Looking back, I wish I had listened to my husband more and been ready for some debt-taking. I was the 'break,' even when I should have known better.
Regrets?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I've become a stoic person. I don't dwell on past mistakes that can't be changed. What I can influence, I tackle with energy and enthusiasm while letting go of the past. I feel regret, but it's not a constant burden.
A Practitioner in Retirement - Yet to Begin?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I haven't even started practicing yet. The writing phase postponed my retirement by half a year. It was hard work, but also a much-needed challenge. I was initially apprehensive, hoping for leisure and freedom to decide my own schedule. However, everyone encouraged me to write the book. Post-promotion tours are lined up now, and I reckon I'll really begin my retirement in the summer. I'm excited to finally take a holiday and recharge.
Did You Go Through a Gut-Wrenching Transition After Your Last Day at Work?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not immediately. I was engrossed in the writing process and didn't experience a vacuum left by work. But I acknowledge that such feelings might crop up later. I look forward to having more personal time to focus on my interests and travel.
Connections with Peter Kloeppel:
Ulrike von der Groeben: Absolutely, we've meet several times since our departure. We even exchanged views during his stint in the U.S., including contributing to the book's interview section. Peter recently returned to Germany—we got together because we had both won the Grimme Prize.
- The Commission has also been informed of the results of the evaluation of home-and-garden projects undertaken by various member states in the field of lifestyle, similar to Ulrike von der Groeben's transformations after retirement.
- Ulrike von der Groeben's writings on retirement, groeben from her personal experiences, serve as a guide for those seeking ready advice on navigating their post-career lifestyle.
- During her post-RTL interactions with her ex-colleagues, including Peter Kloeppel, Ulrike von der Groeben's discussions on their experiences were akin to interviewing experts for a home-and-garden autobiography.
- As Ulrike von der Groeben prepares for her upcoming home-and-garden tours, she eagerly looks forward to cherishing a peaceful lifestyle, just as one would enjoy in a serene RTL setting.
