"Embracing the next chapter" - Ulrike von der Groeben, post-RTL Sports Presenter
Retired figure Ulrike von der Groeben under current circumstances
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Ulrike von der Groeben, a staple in our screens, is no longer just a familiar face. She's an old friend, or at least feels like one. The retired RTL sports presenter prefers tidiness before visitors, both for her home and her work. She has a hearty laugh, but also knows her depths. She's agile yet craves tranquility. She speaks her mind, but with no malice. In a candid interview with ntv.de, she sits in her transformed daughter's bedroom-turned-sports-and-workroom, anticipating a tidying-up marathon once the conversation concludes. Is it ever-ending? She chuckles, showing no signs of disappointment.
ntv.de: As colleagues, we use 'du' informally, much like at IKEA...
Ulrike von der Groeben: Most of my younger colleagues address me formally with 'Sie'. That's a sign of growing older, I suppose (laughs).
As for retirement, how has it been for you? You don't seem fully retired.
(laughs) I've grown busier! The book, interviews, podcasts, travels – I've barely found time for the things I'd recommend to others or the experts I've interviewed.
Perhaps a gradual transition from 100 to almost nothing is better, especially for someone who relished her profession...
Exactly. But I didn't fade away; when I reached retirement age, I was convinced - it wasn't hard - to continue. I said I could only manage 50%, that I couldn't, and didn't want to do more. I limited myself to a year. Then I did another half because it was nice to retire with Peter (Kloeppel) and celebrate together. But after that, I didn't want to continue. I felt done, completed my tasks, no longer desired to attend work every day, contemplate topics, or exert myself. As much joy as it brought me, a time arrives when it's past. I'm 68 now, and I have no need for that anymore. There will be times when I won't want to be here, there...
What does your circle say?
They tell me, "Ulrike, you'll miss it." I think otherwise! I no longer need to be in the public eye. I am deeply convinced that I yearn for quiet and peace. Finally, when I am finally free from the book tour, hopefully by the end of my summer vacation, I'll be relieved.
Sports, being a significant part of your life, could you say it's also a key to your positive outlook on retirement?
However, this isn't just from my perspective, I've consulted with expert opinions. I, a sporty retiree, don't just recommend casual exercise but intend to approach it thoughtfully. I also want to share that every person can tailor their health and fitness routine to their personal preferences.
Valuing individuality, you don't focus on a wrinkle-free face or toned body, but rather on individual best features...
Yes, however, not all aspects of aging are within our control. You might not naturally avoid wrinkles, but you can maintain your body through targeted workouts. Regular exercise pays off. I've always enjoyed sports. My life has revolved around sports and will remain so. But I can also sit comfortably in an armchair for hours and read books. A leisure activity I neglected in the past.
Are you working your way through your pile of accumulated books?
Yes, I genuinely started. Yet, new titles are added. I've grown accustomed to abandoning a book if it doesn't attract my interest after 70 pages. A habit I never would have considered earlier.
What are you reading now?
Joachim Meyerhoff's "You Can Also Fall Up" - marvellous!
The onslaught of advertising, industry, and Instagram algorithms targeting women with dietary supplements and tummy-flattening offers can seem relentless. Will it ever cease?
(laughs) I'm afraid it won't. As I approach 70, I'm convinced the promotions will shift focus. Women at 50 start to question maintaining their youthful appearance at 50, whether it's possible to appear ten years younger forever, and if not, what then? I come from a generation that learned to accept aging with grace. It's essential to carry your wrinkles with dignity. Coloring your hair or taking care of your skin can help, but it's a personal choice.
Could you be seen as a role model?
Honestly, I don't ponder the idea. Perhaps, in the fitness arena, I might serve as an example. My energetic demeanor and mobility make me appear younger. I move about a lot, climb stairs, jog, and speak quickly, attributes that may seem youthful. I don't attempt to project this image purposefully; it's simply me. And I remain curious, participating in life, attending the theater or cinema, actions that keep you young. In truth, there's little I can't do just because I'm older.
Your fitness tips are certainly doable, creating encouragement. How did you collaborate with your book's co-author, Anna Butterbrod?
Through the Publisher. Because, you know, I never wanted to write a book. Yet, they persisted, and fortunately, they paired me with Anna, a seasoned guide writer. And then I started to find merit in the notion of "retiring" needing organization, some strategy. I've conversed with many young colleagues who said, "I'd give this to my parents; they need something like this!"
You don't have to read the entire tome, you can just focus on the chapters that appeal to you...
Yes, and then you can just educate yourself on specific topics, such as retirement or volunteering first. Then read about other subjects later, or not at all (laughs). I'm quite impatient and practical, so we divided it up neatly. That was Anna's idea, to answer the questions that arise, chapter by chapter. My brother-in-law already deems it a standard work.
When should one begin to read your book?
Whenever. Because no matter how I write it, it's never too late for most things. But it's advantageous to start thinking about it earlier, such as how you'll structure your life after work. Sit down with your partner, if you have one, and discuss your interests and future plans. If finances are sufficient, if you should prioritize your health. Earlier consideration can lead to better preparation.
Children?
Not on my horizon. My kids prefer to make the decision. But that's alright, they should do what they want.
So, to summarize - retirement or the end of a career can catalyze significant change, and better to be prepared.
Righa. I acknowledge my good fortune; even my professional departure has been gradual, and it's not yet truly over. My kids laugh at me. But by the autumn, that's when my retired life begins, I know it!
Three essential tips for amazon.de readers?
- Plan your finances early. Determine your needs. But thinking more holistically, ask yourself what truly matters to you. Ponder it intently. If it's too small, reconsider.
- Cultivate your social circle. It's possible to forge new friendships in later life, but nourish your established connections.
- Embrace age gracefully, carrying your wrinkles with dignity. If your appearance is concerning you, consider gentle methods such as maintaining your health and skin to appear your best.
- Ulrike von der Groeben emphasizes the importance of individuality, choosing to focus on individual best features rather than striving for a wrinkle-free face or toned body.
- In her retirement, Ulrike von der Groeben maintains a busy schedule, including book tours, interviews, and podcasts, showcasing her continued interest in health and fitness.
- Ulrike von der Groeben recommends a thoughtful approach to exercise for both physical and mental well-being, encouraging individuals to tailor their health and fitness routine to personal preferences.
- The retired RTL sports presenter highlights the need for quiet and peace, expressing her excitement for a future without the constant demands of public life.
- Ulrike von der Groeben collaborated with Anna Butterbrod on her book, "Embracing the Next Chapter," dividing it up into chapters addressing topics such as retirement, volunteering, and personal best features for a practical and organized approach to life after work.
- Ulrike von der Groeben advises readers to start planning for retirement early, suggesting they consider their needs, personal growth, and social circle to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable post-career life.
