Seven things that surprised me when I retired

The following words ring true for me.

Retirement: You won’t know what it is like until you get there.

Our society loads lots onto the word “retirement”. As I discovered, retirement’s not as simple as downing tools and relaxing. Then what are some of the surprises that I discovered?

1.   Retirement can last a long time

Perhaps 10,000 days, which is a lot of time to fill with meaning and  purpose and intention.

2.   Your health

Work no longer offers an excuse to ignore your health, as you now have the time to focus on wellbeing. Engage in regular exercise and maintain your doctors’ appointments. 

3.   The gift of time

Your time in retirement is a gift to you. Make good use of that gift to do whatever gives you meaning.

4.   Domestic life

Where you live, apartment or house, in the case that you live with a partner, becomes joint space seven days a week. Share it wisely and well and, most of all, discuss and negotiate the space.

5.   The power of self-reflection

You have the chance to think deeply about yourself, and your relationships with family and friends. Do it! Good emotional hygiene delivers great benefits.

6.   New experiences

Don’t hesitate to try a new hobby, or take a course. So what if you fail. You don’t have a boss who’ll get angry with you.

7.   Kindness

Most of all, be kind to yourself. Self-compassion delivers emotional benefits.

There are many more surprises. A retirement coach can help, not only to uncover them, but then assist you to make the most of them.

Re-imagine your retirement with 64PLUS, visit www.64plus.com.au to find out more.