Every Christmas Eve, Santa does something pretty amazing. He clocks in for his big night… for the thousandth time. No slowing down. No stepping back. No “maybe I’ll retire next season.” No matter how old he is (…and he’s pretty old), he still shows up.
And while you’re probably not managing a global toy-delivery operation out of the Arctic Circle, maybe you feel the same way. You like staying active. You enjoy the work. You enjoy the people. You’re not counting down to a retirement “end date.” And that’s okay!
So this Christmas Eve, while Santa is checking everything twice, let’s take a look at why he’ll never retire… and why you don’t have to either.
Santa Loves His Job
Santa doesn’t keep working because he has to—he keeps working because he wants to.
And let’s be honest — if your job involved:
- An unlimited cookie stipend
- Worldwide travel
- A cozy winter uniform
- A devoted workplace team
- One big project per year
…you might do it forever, too.
Santa keeps working because it brings him joy — and plenty of other people feel that way too — especially those who love staying busy, creative, social, or connected to a routine.
If you enjoy what you do, if you like the people around you, and if the work fits your schedule…you don’t have to retire.
Santa Stays Moving
Santa might only deliver once a year, but it’s not exactly light work.
Chimneys? Cardio.
Climbing roofs? Balance training.
Carrying a bag of toys? Strength workout.
Sleigh steering? Core stability (probably).
He keeps moving — and it keeps him going. When you stay connected to things that keep you active — physically or mentally — you stay energized and motivated, just like Santa.
Santa Doesn’t Do It Alone
Santa may be the face of the operation, but he doesn’t run the North Pole by himself.
He gets to work with:
- Elves (Manufacturing & Product Development Team)
- Reindeer (Logistics & Transportation Department)
- Mrs. Claus (Head of North Pole Operations)
- Millions of Kids (Global Stakeholders & End-Users)
When you have a team like that — people who support you, laugh with you, and help keep everything moving — it’s easy to keep going year after year.
Santa Isn’t Hanging Up His Red Suit
Santa loves his job so much that he might be the world’s longest-tenured employee. But honestly, the man works one shift a year, gets to see the world, and has a staff that literally sparkles. No wonder he’s never retired.
And while you may not have centuries on the job, you probably know what it’s like to keep doing something simply because it brings you joy, routine, and connection. Santa’s no different — he just also gets cookies.
Jordan Hickey is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional with an affinity for elf culture. Based in Glastonbury and Wilton, CT, Jordan offers guidance on retirement, insurance, investments, and overall wealth management. Schedule a complimentary introductory meeting with Jordan.
This information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and it does not constitute a recommendation. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Any opinions are those of the author, and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice.