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How to really enjoy retirement

19th December 2014

It is a time that we all look forward to yet, despite the years of dreaming and planning in some cases, many of us do not know how to really enjoy retirement. For many, this time can seem quite daunting, with no schedule to follow and unlimited possibilities, in addition to what is likely to be a smaller income.

However, this guide is here to show you how to really enjoy your retirement, as you should. Let’s face it, you’ve earned it!

#1 Beat blues

First off, it is important to ensure that the retirement blues don’t get a hold. While you may have been looking forward to reaching retirement age for some time, it doesn’t mean that retirement blues can’t set in once that time has come.  There are many reasons that one may experience retirement blues – here are just a few:

- It’s an anti-climax after the years of waiting

- You miss the routine and sense of fulfilment

- You don’t have as much money

- Your health isn’t what it was

While you may feel one or all of the above at one time or another during your retirement, it doesn’t mean that you just have to continue felling that way. In terms of health, indoor stair lifts and such aids can help overcome certain health and elderly mobility issues, while there are plenty of advice helplines such as Age UK Money Matters and the Money Advice Service that can offer advice to help you live in financial comfort on your pension.

For the other points, this guide should be able to offer some points of interest that can really help you make the most of being retired.

#2 Travel

One of the best activities you can enjoy once retired is the joy of travelling. Without the time constraints of work or limited holiday allocation you can travel cheaply and whenever you feel like it. Many retirees even enjoy spending the winter abroad, simply because they can.

With holiday packages abroad cheaper than ever, particularly in off-peak times, travelling in your silver years can be easier and cheaper than you might have previously thought. Take a look at the Silver Travel Advisor and cruise websites for ideas.

#3 Enjoy quality family time

With the extra time now on your hands, there has never been a better opportunity to really enjoy quality family time. Whether it be with your partner, sibling, children or grandchildren, take the time to really catch up with and strengthen bonds that may have depleted through increased workloads and late working evenings.

#4 Pass on your experience and knowledge to others

With the end of your career in sight your knowledge is at its peak, so why not give something back? Whether it’s teaching your children or grandchildren how to play the piano or sharing your experiences with friends, passing on your skills and experiences will re-show you just how valued you are by others and that you can still very much contribute to society, without having to remain at work.

Don’t know where to start? Try joining a local book club or tutoring programme.

#5 Pick up a hobby

The choice of hobbies for what to do when you retire are endless. While your fitness may not be what it once was and there may come a time when you need to think about walk in bath or shower installation, there are plenty of hobbies and sports to suit all levels of mobility and fitness, let alone personal preferences. Swimming is a great option for those who want to really improve their fitness, while crafts and learning to play an instrument can be great for keeping the mind active and trying something you have always wanted to master.

#6 Volunteer

With the free time that comes with retirement, there is no act more rewarding than volunteering. Whether that be for a local charity or as a way of helping your local community, there is no better way to make the most of your time. If you always wanted to find the time to volunteer, now is your chance. Visit ncvo.org.uk for advice and opportunities specifically for the retired individual, or click here if you’re thinking about volunteering with Age UK.

#7 Go back to work

Finally, it may seem a contradiction, but retiring may just be the best career opportunity you ever received. Retirement offers the chance for many to pursue a career dream they could never have afforded to carry through the first time around. Whether your passion lies in opening your own small business or as a part-time florist, working after you’ve retired can offer you the chance to truly do something you love whilst earning a bit of extra income and enjoy the sense of fulfilment and routine you had before – but on your terms.

Image Credit: American Advisors Group, Highways Agency, Jon Feinstein (flickr.com)



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This news article is from Handicare UK. Articles that appear on this website are for information purposes only.