Now retired, James Orlowski served as the supervisor of the swing shift at Ohara Airport’s Butler Aviation for six years. During this time, he assumed responsibility for all maintenance activities and oversight of the cleaning crew. James Orlowski also oversaw baggage unloading. He specialized in supporting maintenance activities during nighttime and non-traditional work periods, a role critical to ensuring safety and the continuity of operations at the airport.
James Orlowski studied political science at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn. He also spent time as an aviation student with the Belleville Area College aviation program. The program included pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and aviation management, and offered various pilot degrees and certifications.
Since retiring, James Orlowski has mainly focused on maintaining his home and property and working on his 2002 Grand Prix Pontiac. He remains physically active through golf and tennis. A few of his interests include watching movies and television shows, playing music and board games, and spending time with his grandchildren.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
Have some coffee and breakfast, working on the car: Pontiac Grand Prix 2002. Enjoying retired life. Most days are simple and relaxed, spending time at home and staying busy with personal projects.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Planning when a project is up to be completed. I like to know what needs to be done and by when. Having a timeline helps keep things moving and gives the project some structure.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Love how the movies today have improved and sports channel technology. Picture quality and overall experience are better than they used to be. It makes watching more enjoyable and keeps me interested.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Morning routine of eating breakfast, catching up, and binge-watching shows. Start the day slow and get settled before doing anything else.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Nothing. I appreciate the failures, growth, and successes. Everything was part of the process—it all played a part in where I am today.
Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.
Politics and religion. These are topics where everyone has strong opinions. I keep my views personal and don’t worry much about agreement.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Enjoy barbequing. Charcoal is still choice of preference. I enjoy the process and the flavor. Good way to relax and enjoy good food.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Sit back and let the feelings or emotions and pass, then reset. No rushing it. Taking a pause helps clear my head and get back on track.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
Had a boss back in 70’s that harassed me. Staying in my lane for years helped me grow my career, as the old boss helped me identify the positives in life and what to avoid in life that are negative energy.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A personal “busywork” planning service for retirees. This business would help new retirees create simple and enjoyable daily and weekly routines.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Microsoft Word. Use it for writing things down and organizing thoughts. It keeps everything in one place.
What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?
On my grandkids—clothing, toys, etc. Money well spent. Seeing them happy makes it worth it.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
UFO documentary, military shows, and the sports channel. I’m across the board and like a mix of topics.
Key learnings
- Morning routines help you start the day.
- Stay engaged during retirement through hobbies, interests, and personal projects.
- Learn to appreciate failures as stepping stones to success.
- Identity the positives in life and learn to identify things that bring negative energy, so you can avoid them.