John Smith,
If you are going to retrain, you want something that will be in need whatever the economic circumstances.
I have thought about this and I reckon one of the following in no particular order,
Doctor, Lawyer, accountant, CEO of a blue chip, politician.
For the less academic/ non masons
Undertakers, hairdressers, plumbers/electricians/trades
I have never known any of the above be out of work for long, be short of cash or to pay tax at the same rate the rest of us mugs do. They can also carry on part time as long as they want. I would have included teachers and nurses but all the ones I know are under massive stress and want to quit ASAP.
Another alternative, followed by some in our profession is to write a best selling book.
In the last resort, marry someone very rich who finds pot bellies, no conversation outside flying or aircraft and sleep deficit attractive qualities in a partner.
The day I retire, I have vowed to never again set foot inside an airport or aircraft.
Not that I will be able to afford to anyhow. Fries with that madam?