How to Enjoy Retirement

 

Retirement is a time to relax and enjoy life. It is a time to spend time with loved ones, travel, and pursue hobbies. However, it can also be a time of adjustment. It is important to find ways to enjoy retirement and make the most of this new chapter in your life. I know many people that love retirement and then there are those that get bored and lonely. This here is dedicated to those that just can't quite cope with being retired.

Listed below are some helpful tips:

1. Spend time with loved ones. Retirement is a great time to spend time with the people you love. Make sure to schedule regular time for family and friends. Go on vacation together, take up new hobbies together, or just enjoy each other's company at home. My favorite is to just relax in the living room and watch the girls play. 
2. Travel. Retirement is the perfect time to see the world. There are so many amazing places to visit, from exotic locales to historical sites. Make a list of all the places you've always wanted to see and start planning your trips. My father is great at this! Every couple of years he plans a family vacation, usually a cruise, and my siblings and our significant others go on a vacation with my dad. Thanks dad!
3. Pursue hobbies. Retirement is a great time to pursue your hobbies. If you've always wanted to learn to paint, play the guitar, or write a book, now is the time to do it. There are many classes and workshops available to help you learn new skills. I started making jewelry and of course my watercoloring I started a few years ago. Plus I started a new business! 
4. Give back to your community. Retirement is a great time to give back to your community. Volunteer your time to a local charity or start your own project. There are many ways to make a difference in the world, and retirement is the perfect time to start. if you live in a retirement community, get active in their activities and help organize and plan events
5. Stay active. It is important to stay active in retirement. This includes exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. Staying active will help you maintain your health and well-being. This is one of the most difficult I believe, especially living in Florida. The hot summer sun can be too much and I just want to stay indoors. With that said, that is when I work on my hobbies! 
6. Take care of your mental health. Retirement can be a time of transition and adjustment. It is important to take care of your mental health during this time. If you are feeling stressed or anxious, talk to a therapist or counselor. I see many people in my own community that have become withdrawn and will not get involved in anything or even leave the home. I worry about their mental health. It seems lonely, but with that said, they just may prefer that. 
7. Don't be afraid to try new things. Retirement is a time to try new things. If you've always wanted to learn to scuba dive, take a cooking class, or learn a new language, now is the time to do it. There are many opportunities to learn new things. 
8. Don't forget to relax. Retirement is a time to relax and enjoy life. Make sure to take some time for yourself each day to read, take a nap, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. I have no issues with this activity. 
9. Be patient. It may take some time to adjust to retirement. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. There are many resources available to help you make the most of this new chapter in your life.
10. Celebrate! Retirement is a major accomplishment. Take some time to celebrate this new chapter in your life. No more alarm clock. Go to bed when you want, get up when you want. I would say eat what you want, but that isn't really true as we need to maintain good health. 

With all of that said, just enjoy life. Retired or not, enjoy life. It is way too short.