the retiring type
11 Mar 2011
|
2 Comments
|
reflections
,
career
,
family
,
wellbeing
Most of us spend years looking forward to retirement – attracted by the notion of endless free time and the freedom to do what we want, when we want. But it is exactly these aspects of retirement that can allow boredom to set in once the buzz of leaving work has worn off.
So it’s important not to simply retire from something, but to have something to retire to. That way retirement can be a time of great fulfilment – discovering new passions and rekindling old ones.
Here are some steps you can take to make the most of your retirement and prevent boredom from creeping in:
he who fails to plan, plan to fail
Make a plan. Sit down with a paper and pen and figure out what would constitute an ideal retirement for you. This could include people you want to spend more time with, what you’d like to do on a daily basis and new interests. This is a great way of focussing you’re mind, and can also help you identify your talents and achievements.
there’s no place like home
Chances are you’ll to be spending a lot more time at home once you’ve retired so it’s best to make it as comfortable as possible. Now could be a good time to de-clutter, redecorate or even renovate. And perhaps you may want to create a space to pursue special interests such a workshop, craft room or yoga space. Another good idea is to talk to your spouse or partner about redistributing the household chores now you’ve got more time on your hands.
rekindle old flames
Think about all the interests you’ve flirted with throughout your life but never really had the time to pursue. Do you want to learn to play an instrument, take a course at university or TAFE, or learn how to cook? Retirement is the perfect time to finally tackle things you’ve always wanted to. If you’re not sure what you’d like to do, most city councils put on a range of activities for people over-50 so that could be a good place to start.
do unto others
Volunteering can be a great way to find fulfilment in retirement – engaging in meaningful activity while helping others. There is a great variety of opportunities for retirees, ranging from helping out at your local library or museum to campaigning for a non-government organisation or raising a puppy to become a guide or assistance dog. For ideas visit www.govolunteer.com.au
zenployment
Zenployment is a term that describes a fun or fulfilling career, which provides additional income once you’ve retired. Some popular options for retirees include becoming a home or pet sitter, helping others out in their gardens, working on a cruise ship or at a ski or fishing lodge, or becoming a wedding planner.
With a little planning, retirement can be the time of your life. So why not sit down and spend some time thinking about exactly what it is you want out of it.