Originally Published 4/23/25.
I have to say, returning to work again after retirement feels different. Maybe it’s the four-month breather I gave myself, or maybe it’s the simple truth that this time, I’m working because I want to, not because I must.
That probably sounds a little harsh, so let me back up. I truly loved my time working at the University of Texas System. It felt safe, meaningful, and deeply connected, like family. I was proud of the work we did and the purpose behind it.
But this new chapter isn’t about climbing ladders or checking boxes. It’s about giving back. I’ve spent thirty years in workers’ compensation and management, learning, growing, making mistakes, and finding my way. Now, I want to bundle all of that up and share it. My hope is to help shape the workers’ compensation industry into what I believe it can be, to inspire the next generation to bring their brilliance and build on the strong foundation we’ve already laid.
That’s what drew me to WorkCompCollege.com. The work we’re doing here speaks to something deep inside me. It’s meaningful. It’s mission-driven toward compassion in the workers’ compensation space. And it’s a perfect fit for why I stepped back into the workforce in the first place.
To be honest, when I started, I felt those old familiar patterns creeping back in, the 8 to 5 routine, the guilt for stepping away from my computer for too long. I even had one of those weekends where I quietly wondered if I’d made a mistake. But then, Sunday night came, and I felt excited. That feeling, that little spark, was all the reassurance I needed. This is right. And I’m having fun.
My work was not to be full-time, but I’ve found myself giving more than I initially planned. And it feels good. Maybe it’s because I chose this path. Maybe it’s because the goals we’re working toward align so closely with my own beliefs. Whatever the reason, I’m grateful and will eventually allow myself grace toward the freedom I have.
One promise I made to myself, though, was to protect time for what matters most, my husband Randy, our family, and of course, Lattie (my four-legged, 1000lb therapist). Randy and I love our evenings on the back porch, watching the sun go down as Bell, our dog, plays nearby and Lattie grazes peacefully in the pasture. I check in with my mom most evenings, and Sundays are for spending time together laughing and playing games, while Randy cooks something delicious for us.
Lattie and I have even started taking lessons with a trainer. We’re learning so much, and I think I can safely say we’re both enjoying the journey. I’ve also been keeping an eye out for another horse, because I think Lattie could use a buddy. Hopefully soon, I’ll be able to make introductions.
And yes, my inner overachiever hasn’t gone anywhere. I’m still nurturing my future project, and since my last blog, those plans have only grown. The vision is big, and it’s going to take time, but putting the pieces together has been such a joy mixed with, I can’t lie, a smidge of trepidation.
WHAT HAVE I DONE? I found purpose. I found balance. From the rising excitement as retirement approached, to the sudden, soul-shaking stillness that followed the very next day, to the deep dive into figuring out who Melissa Steger really is, it’s been a journey. A real one. There have been some highs and lows along the way, but standing here now, I can honestly say I’m happy. I’m content with where I’ve landed. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not claiming to have found some perfect, magical balance (does that even exist?). But what retirement did give me was the breathing room I didn’t know I needed. Space to pause, reflect, and really understand what matters most to me and to my family. And that moment. That clarity. It was a gift.
