I never thought that someone would have to mentally prepare themselves for retirement. Did you? Most people look at retirement as the light at the end of the tunnel to finally end the rat race. Let’s think about traveling and having time to do all the things that your job got in the way of doing.
I was reading an article in Princeton Medicine and they said that the first thing we should do is “recognize what needs work fulfills in your life and establish new ways to have those needs met” That’s easier said than done!
I do know that planning ahead can help you prioritize what your life might look like when retired. You still want to be a productive member of society and want all your social, intellectual, and financial needs met, right?
Just having a reason to get out of bed in the morning and not punch a time clock would be all someone wants. Some suggestions if you are retiring this winter:
- Plan something to do for each part of the day morning, afternoon, and evening.
- Do some volunteer work with a nonprofit.
- Take some classes at the library
- Take an exercise class like swimming
- Find both indoor and outdoor hobbies so you can remain social and structured year-round.
Most of all keep your mind active and enjoy this new phase of life.
