I retired in 2007 and ever since then have been advising and coaching friends and relatives who are entering retirement. I have wrestled my way through retirement, wondering what I am supposed to be doing and taking lots of different paths that have led to some good and not-so-good decisions. So I thought I would share my top 5 ideas for those of you anticipating retirement or who are already retired and need some direction. So here they are:
1. Before retiring, if possible, start making a list of things you might like to do in retirement. Dong this helped me focus and also to look forward with anticipation to the next chapter of my life.
2. Once you are retired, I say this emphatically. Allow yourself to REST! Sit back, put your feet up, and take a chill pill. You earned it. Take an afternoon nap. Read some good books. Maybe take some leisurely trips. Enjoy your grandchildren. Do some fun exercise. Do not even think about committing yourself to another job or permanent activity right away (unless you need the money.) Some people advised me to wait 6 months. Some said 2 years. I agree with the latter. My daughter had twins less than a year after I retired, so I was busy with them for almost a year, but it was a good kind of activity.
3. My next suggestion is to DABBLE as you move into a more regular rhythm. Take classes, if that interests you. Volunteer anywhere that sounds intriguing or rewarding. I found out quickly which places lit me up and which places brought me down. Volunteering is perfect, because you can do it for as little or long a time as you want. Your church can always use volunteers. Do not vege out in front of the TV in your bathrobe all day. Move. Get out in the world. Make contact with people, even if it just at the grocery store.
4.This is really important: Take care of yourself!!! Do your exercise. Eat a healthy diet. Have regular checkups. Don’t neglect your health. You know the drill – but it is so important! If you need help, ask for it. You want to enjoy your retirement, not have health concerns.
5. If you start getting restless and like your brain has stopped working and you are thinking about part-time or full-time work again, start putting feelers out. Look online for opportunities. Start making a list of what looks and sounds interesting. Update your resume’. Talk to your friends and ask if they know of anything in your area of expertise. After several years, I felt like my brain had turned to mush, so I mentioned to a friend that I needed something to do in the area of health (my background) and she hooked me up with someone who needed a research assistant at a medical school. I started as a volunteer and it turned into a paid PT job. I also have trained as a life and wellness coach and do wardrobe consulting.
So there they are and I hope reading them has helped you on your retirement journey. Comments and suggestions are welcome. Contact me if you would some more help in the way of coaching. Enjoy this chapter of your life!!
Jane Springer is a certified Life, Wellness and Style Coach who assists women in taking care of themselves, in body, mind and spirit. She coaches women who want to lose weight, avoid diabetes, and feel great. She also helps them thrive after divorce. She also helps them to clear their closets of old clothes and outdated attitudes, so they can shine and feel confident.