For many people, retiring from work can be almost as life-changing as having children or getting married, and can require just as much personal adjustment. After all, that last day of work means more than a dramatic change in your daily schedule; it also represents a significant change in his role. Retirement is an opportunity to redefine yourself, and these ten tips will help.
keep moving
Do you remember the image of a retiree sitting in his rocking chairs and watching the world go by from the comfort of his front porch? While his grandfather spent his retirement that way, it’s not the life that seniors today have in mind. These days, people in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and over are more active than ever. According to the Mayo Clinic, the health benefits of exercising regularly include everything from weight control to managing health conditions like type II diabetes. Plus, exercising regularly, especially with friends or a partner, can build your stamina and dramatically improve your mental state and energy level. Great activities to consider include walking, swimming, or even cross-country skiing.
Continuous learning
You know that old saying about learning something new every day? That is still true no matter what your age. Stretching your mind, whether through crossword puzzles, library books, or community education classes, is a great way to stay sharp for the future. Make it a goal to try something new every day, week, or month, and enjoy checking it off your list. Have you always wanted to make pottery on the wheel, learn French or practice watercolours? Now is the time to expand those skills. You’re freed from the responsibilities of work and parenting, so you can focus on doing (and learning) exactly what you want. Some seniors even go back to school to finish their college degrees. To find out about classes near you, contact your local community center, college or university.
share your wisdom
You’ve spent your entire life accumulating great lessons and valuable perspective, and retirement is the perfect time to share those gems with others. Young people, whether they are neighborhood kids or her own children or grandchildren, can benefit from the lessons she has learned over the years. A great way to pass on your wisdom is to make a life lesson book. You can cover a specific topic, like raising children or managing your finances, or you can make it general. Recording these lessons also helps keep them fresh in your mind.
Find a support group
Any moment of great change can be bittersweet. While you may be enjoying your newfound freedom, retirement can also bring a sense of loss. In addition to your changing role, you may be dealing with financial stress, aging, illness, and loss of loved ones. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Care.com, a site for older people and their families, says that joining a support group can help older people cope with difficult situations by sharing their feelings with others. A support group can even provide a social outlet if you’re feeling isolated.
Stay Social
Did you know that recent research indicates that older people who have a large network of friends are healthier and live longer than those who simply have a close family? Although family relationships are very important, they are not a substitute for having friends. You can make friends by attending classes and events at your local senior center, going out into the community through a church or school, or starting a weekly card game or book club. While they shouldn’t replace “real life” friendships, virtual friends can also be a great joy. Get active on social networking sites or start a blog to share your experiences with friends around the world.
record your story
Sharing your life story can also be a great way to enjoy your retirement. Reviewing the events of your life allows you to reflect on all that you have learned and experienced over the years. Also, recording your history and family history allows you to share those important memories with your loved ones. You can record your life story in a number of ways. It can be as simple as sitting in your favorite chair with a tape recorder and just telling the stories you remember. Alternatively, you can write a memoir or hire a professional to make your Video Biography to share with your children, grandchildren, and their descendants. Regardless of the format you choose, you will give future generations a priceless gift.
offer your skills
Volunteering is another important part of a healthy retirement. Whether you’re helping out at the local elementary school or serving food at a soup kitchen downtown, you’re giving the gift of your time. Mentoring others is a great way to make a difference in the world. Sites like ‘Micro Mentor’ can help you connect with new entrepreneurs who could benefit from your expertise. Maybe even volunteer to teach a course at a community center. He can also talk to local hospitals, nursing homes, schools, churches, and day care centers about how he can help.
See the world
Now that you don’t have the set hours that come with the job, every day is vacation day. Make the most of all that time by taking the trips you put off during the busiest years. Whether you’re traveling to the other side of the world or across town, this is a great time to see new places. Organizations like Seniors Home Exchange give you the opportunity to exchange homes with others who might enjoy your home. Another great option is Elder Treks, which features exotic adventures for active people 50 and older.
Take a moment to enjoy life
You don’t have to rush to work in the morning to put the kids to bed at night, so take a few minutes to enjoy life. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee on the patio or relaxing in front of the fire in the evening, one of the great joys of retirement is the slower pace and the chance to really appreciate all you have. Keeping a journal can help you focus on those moments as you record them for the day. Another option is to bring a digital camera. You’ll be amazed at what a photograph could inspire, and the moment you pull out your camera and turn it on, you may remember to stop and smell the roses you’re about to photograph.
To identify activities you love
Overwhelmed with all the options for activities you might enjoy? Let your life inspire you! What did you enjoy doing over the years? Maybe you loved building model cars as a teenager. Maybe you enjoyed knitting with your mother. List as many favorite activities as you can, then sit down and go through your list. What do these activities have in common? Maybe they are all creative, adventure oriented, or social. These common threads can guide you toward the perfect new experience or hobby.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, retirement is a major life change and your outlook will determine much. Attitude is everything. Stay focused on the positive, continue to set goals, and explore. Maintaining a good attitude is one of the most important ways you can improve your quality of life.