It’s Never Too Late: How One Retiree Proves a Second Career Can Be a Rewarding New Chapter

Learning is a lifelong process - Doris Yap celebrates the completion of her Professional Diploma in Will Writing & Estate Planning.

In a world where retirement is often seen as the finish line, one remarkable individual has turned it into a launching pad for a fulfilling second career.

75-year old Doris Yap was a former Finance Branch Manager and General Manager of a theme park before her retirement at 56 years old.  Unlike many retirees, she did not see retirement as a time to wind down.  Instead, she saw it as the perfect opportunity to reinvent herself.

Now, more than 20 years into her role as a Rockwills franchisee and estate planner, she is living proof that it is never too late to pursue a new passion and make a meaningful impact.

Trading Retirement for Purpose

While many seniors dream of spending their golden years in leisure and some others wondering how to continue to utilise their expertise and knowledge, this inspiring franchisee acted on her plans.

“I have an interest in acquiring knowledge on estate planning,” she says. “I feel I can still contribute by helping people solve their estate issues.”

Driven by a desire to keep learning and give back to the community, she joined Rockwills, Malaysia’s leading provider of will-writing and estate planning services. Despite joining later in life, she quickly found her footing, crediting her extensive background in banking, customer service, and marketing for easing the transition.

No Challenge Too Great

For her, age was never a barrier. “It’s never too late in life to learn new things,” she says with confidence. “Good time management is the key. With our advanced age, we have more life experience to share and can offer better advice based on our life journey.”

Her optimism and work ethic have allowed her to thrive in a field where trust, knowledge, and empathy are essential. The flexibility of being her own boss and the continuous learning involved in estate law—both locally and internationally—keep her intellectually engaged and emotionally fulfilled.

Embracing Technology and Modern Demands

In today’s tech-driven environment, keeping up with digital tools and AI can seem daunting, especially for seniors. But she believes human connection still wins the day. “Providing good service with a genuine intention to help families, and gaining their trust, is always better than any AI,” Doris explains.

Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the pace of change, she adapts by focusing on her core mission: helping families plan their futures and avoid inheritance disputes. Her calm, service-oriented approach is a testament to how experience and sincerity often outshine flashy digital tools.

Balance and Satisfaction

While building a business at any age comes with its pressures, she strikes a balance by maintaining discipline and practicing gratitude. “Don’t give ourselves too much pressure. Focus on helping families—that’s where true self-satisfaction comes from,” Doris advises.

Words of Wisdom for Fellow Seniors

For others approaching or already in retirement and considering a second career, her advice is heartfelt and encouraging: “Relax, take it easy. Share your knowledge and experience, keep learning new things. Never retire completely—your mind will slow down. Don’t waste your knowledge and experience; share it with others and help them,” advises Doris.

A New Chapter, Not the End

Doris’ story is a compelling reminder that retirement doesn’t have to mean retreat. With curiosity, courage, and a desire to serve, a second career can be the most rewarding chapter of all. Whether it is estate planning, entrepreneurship, or another late-life pursuit, it is never too late to start again—with purpose.

About Rockwills International Group

Rockwills International Group, now in its 30th year, pioneered professional will writing in 1995 and has since evolved into the leading estate planning specialist in the country. It is today the largest provider of solutions and support services in the areas of trusts, succession, management, and distribution of wealth. It has done over 320,000 wills and more than 200,000 Executor and Trustee Appointments and holds more than RM25 billion in assets under trust.