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A Heartfelt Journey: Ulrike von der Groeben Reminisces and Offers Insights
Ulrike von der Groeben, a celebrated sports expert, bids adieu to her 35-year stint on "RTL aktuell" and embarks on a new chapter with her book "Freiheit beginnt jetzt!" (available May 7). In this vibrant compilation of autobiographical narratives, expert interviews, and advice, Ulrike shares her experiences and wisdom on retirement. In an exclusive interview with spot on news, she candidly discusses her post-RTL life, financial planning, and relationships with former colleagues.
What significant realizations have you garnered while penning and discussing retirement with experts for your book?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Writing the book has been eye-opening, especially regarding my own preparations for retirement. While I was brave in making the leap, I was also somewhat oblivious about the intricacies of retirement – financially and otherwise. I stress the importance of early planning, as some things can still be rectified close to retirement, but planning early guarantees a smoother transition.
Historically, was financial planning a priority for you?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I'm inclined to be risk-averse when it comes to finances. My husband, on the other hand, was more adventurous, advocating for investments such as buying another property at opportune times. I was initially hesitant, preferring to pay off our existing debts first. In retrospect, I wish I had listened to him more and taken on some calculated risks.
Do you harbor regrets concerning your financial decisions?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Regret won't help me now, so I recognize changes I could have made but choose to focus on the present and future. I'm eager to make the most of my newfound freedom and cherish the moments I can influence positively.
In your book, you advocate for viewing oneself as a "practitioner" during retirement's initial stages. Does this still apply to you, or have you moved beyond this phase?
Ulrike von der Groeben: I've yet to truly embrace this phase, as writing the book has postponed my formal retirement by six months. The book's completion and forthcoming promotional tours will finally allow me to begin my retirement later this year.
Has the quiet solitude brought on by retirement caused any emotions akin to falling into a bottomless pit?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Not quite yet. The overwhelming buzz of deadlines and camaraderie in the studio may yet be replaced by a subtle funk, but so far, I've been too preoccupied with writing to dwell on the change. What I miss, however, is the steady interaction with colleagues and the everyday hustle and bustle.
Did you engage in discussions with Peter Kloeppel for your book?
Ulrike von der Groeben: Indeed, we've stayed in touch. We've seen each other socially and even with our families. Our encounters have included catching up during Peter's time in the US, as well as an interview during his time in the book. Peter was recently back in Germany again – we reconnected because we both received the Grimme Prize.
Ulrike von der Groeben: Writing the book has shown me the importance of early financial planning, as I was somewhat unprepared for the intricacies of retirement. I admit that I could have taken on more calculated risks earlier.
Ulrike von der Groeben: In my book, I advocate for viewing oneself as a "practitioner" during retirement's initial stages, but I'm yet to truly embrace this phase as writing the book has delayed my retirement.
Ulrike von der Groeben: Regret won't help me now, so I recognize changes I could have made but choose to focus on the present and future, making the most of my newfound freedom.
Ulrike von der Groeben: I've stayed in touch with Peter Kloeppel, and we've even had an interview during his time in the book. Peter was recently back in Germany again – we reconnected because we both received the Grimme Prize.
Ulrike von der Groeben: I miss the steady interaction with colleagues and the everyday hustle and bustle, but I haven't yet felt the quiet solitude bring on emotions akin to falling into a bottomless pit.
