Seven things not to do once you retire
Most people, especially in those last few years before retirement, look forward to a time that is their own to spend in whatever way they like. However, unless you have a good plan in mind to occupy yourself in some way, you could be facing a boring time seeded with depression and loneliness.
There are many things that matter over and above money – and it doesn’t matter how well your financial plans may have been developed – you’re still going to need reasons to stay happy and engaged. So while you may have prepared in many ways for your ‘me’ time through savings, investments and pension funds, there are a number of things not to do to get the best out of a time that has been a long time in the planning.
One: Don’t mourn the loss of your job
Some people tend to feel that part of their identity has gone along with their job. Nothing could be further from the truth. You are more yourself now than ever. You are free to plan and engage in a host of things from travel, to adopting rescue animals, to volunteering, to taking up a new direction in education. Take a year off to discover a new identity if you like, but make sure you fulfil your dreams, find yourself in freedom, and in physical and emotional wellness.
Two: Don’t downsize immediately
Often a big mistake to immediately sell your family home or the place where you have been settled for a long time. Best to ease into retirement in an environment that you are familiar with and feel at home in. Changing homes is extremely stressful – and putting this hassle on top of the adjustment time you need after leaving working life, is often not helpful.
Three: Don’t sit around – research and explore new interests
It’s funny how some people believe that just sitting around and engaging in inner searching is a way to cope with the beginning of retirement. It’s not. Never give yourself longer than two weeks or a month to settle your mind and decide how you are going to enjoy yourself. Rather ask yourself what you would like to like to learn, or which hobbies and crafts you are drawn to. There’s nothing like the spur of creativity to put you back into designing the map of your life.
Four: Don’t depend on your family
This is a biggie. So often retired people allow themselves to become nothing more than hangers-on to their families. They start tailing them around, living life vicariously through the activities of their children and grandchildren. This is definitely not recommended – because as much as you may enjoy your family, they have their own lives to live, and you cannot develop your own dance in the reflection of theirs. Go out independently, find friends, take up a new endeavour like ballroom dancing, book clubs, coffee mornings, volunteering work and social engagements. Reduce family time to once a week and special occasions.
Five: Don’t neglect your appearance
Be as smart as you ever were – even if you are dressing more casually, make sure you remain clean and neat. When one is on one’s own a lot of the time, there can be a tendency to simply let chores slide – like the washing, or cooking, or shopping for new items of clothing, or visiting the hairdresser, and exercising, etc. The list is quite extensive and can keep you busy. Treat yourself to a sauna or facial when you can. Looking good keeps us all young, active and motivated!
Six: Don’t give up on romance
It’s no secret that love and intimacy are vitally important to happiness, and that’s especially true with regard to overall wellbeing after retirement. If you’re married, that’s great. However, if you are on your own, it may be just the time to have some renewed fun and rekindle love and romance. Today, you can join a host of sports clubs and social clubs or a church, as well as some very useful senior dating sites. And by the time you retire, we certainly hope that you’re not going to present as a shrinking wallflower.
Seven: Don’t think you are too old for a new challenge
When in the first flush of retirement, you may have all kinds of opportunity to take up a part-time job or classes in a whole new subject. Learn something, make yourself meet new people who are also learning and open up new channels of social engagement. You’ll have fun and meet new people of all ages who share your interests; free your mind and spirit to enjoy new experience. You may just find an all-consuming passion that will give meaning and purpose to your retirement years!
And lastly – don’t forget the reason you saved for retirement
You may be fearful of your grandchildren’s future – and hoping to help them with your savings, but to give up an enjoyable retirement entirely for others makes no sense. If you are prudent and wise, you can have a fun-filled retirement and still leave a legacy for your children or grandchildren. Appreciate your retirement to the full by giving yourself permission to spend your money.
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