FPM's Secret Diarist and anonymous Practice Manager has taken the tough decision to retire after decades of working in primary care. Here they share their thoughts on retirement and the future. 

After over five decades of full-time work—three in business and more than two in the NHS—I have finally stepped into retirement.

I never truly believed retirement would come; I convinced myself I could keep going indefinitely. But now that it has happened, I can look back on my career with pride, knowing I have made a meaningful contribution.

We all know the challenges of Practice Management—the increasing workload, limited resources, and relentless pressures. It is no surprise that managers are leaving the NHS in growing numbers, with fewer people stepping into the profession.

My decision to retire was not made lightly. After facing several health issues, including Long Covid, I found myself questioning why, at my age (well beyond retirement), I was still enduring the daily stresses of the role.

I began reading about those who retired too late to truly enjoy it, their plans cut short by illness or age-related limitations. That struck a chord.

So, I gave my three months' notice, convinced it was the right choice for me and my family.

Those final months came with their own challenges—logistical hurdles, emotional farewells, and the inevitable last-minute crises. It did not go quite as I had envisioned, but I never once doubted my decision. In fact, I found myself counting down the days, looking forward to waking up without an alarm.

During that period, I gained an even deeper appreciation for the scope of our work—the constant pressures, ever-evolving demands, and the pivotal role we play in our practices. It reinforced what I already knew: the job had become too much, and for the sake of my health and well-being, I needed this retirement.

I received plenty of advice about transitioning into this new phase of life—warnings, suggestions, dos, and don’ts.

While it is still early days, and I have had some health setbacks, I do have moments when I miss the structure and camaraderie of work. However, I focus on the future and remind myself that I made the right choice.

Looking ahead, I hope to keep my hand in by working a few hours a week, sharing the vast experience I have gained as a Practice Manager. No matter what, I will always take a keen interest in Primary Care.

I also plan to continue writing blogs—because sometimes, an outsider’s perspective is just as valuable as that of those still in the thick of it.