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Revamped Interview: Ulrike von der Groeben Opens Up
Ulrike von der Groeben, the seasoned sports expert, has penned a new book, "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!", a blend of her journey and expert insights on retirement. Here's what she's sharing about her post-RTL life.
Did you gain any personal insights from writing your book?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Oh, absolutely! I was truly naive about retirement before embarking on this journey. It took courage not to ponder it earlier, but I'm confident I'll find my happiness. However, I'd urge others to tackle financial planning and other crucial aspects earlier. As Professor Froboese suggests in the book, it's never too late, but those who get a head start enjoy an advantage.
Was financial planning important to you before?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I'm all about security and caution when it comes to money. my husband, on the other hand, had a more daring approach. He wanted to invest in smaller properties when rates were favorable. I, however, was always hesitant, convinced we needed to finish paying off our own home before considering anything new. In hindsight, I should have listened to him more. I was the cautious one, even when I knew better.
Do you regret it now?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I'm a firm believer in moving forward. Dwelling on things that can't be changed is futile. I focus on what I can still control and approach it with energy and enthusiasm. I've missed opportunities, but I don't let it weigh me down.
You've argued that retirees should view themselves as 'practitioners'. Is that still applicable to you?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not yet, actually. The work on the book delayed my retirement by six months. It was a significant task, and I'll admit, I was fearful of it. I just wanted to relax and take things easy, but everyone pushed me to write the book. Now, promotional tours are on the horizon. It looks like I'll truly start my retirement in the summer. I'm eager to take a break and let my spirit soar.
Did you feel a void after your last day at work and the farewell party?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not immediately, but I'm certain it'll come. I threw myself into the book, so I didn't have time to miss work. I'm really looking forward to having more leisure time for myself and my hobbies, as well as taking up traveling again.
Have you kept in touch with your long-time colleague, Peter Kloeppel?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Yes, we've maintained contact, even meeting up with our families and friends. We've also exchanged views during his time in the U.S., as evidenced in the book's interview. Peter was recently back in Germany - we reunited because we'd both received the Grimme Prize.
The Commission has also been informed of the results of the evaluation of Ulrike von der Groeben's financial planning strategies in relation to her home-and-garden investments and lifestyle changes during retirement. Ulrike mentiones in her book that she wishes she had listened more to her husband's bold approach to property investment and financial planning, as she believes it could have significantly improved her retirement landscape.
