EVEN prior to my retirement, I somehow knew that my golden years would bring pleasure and autonomy to me. However, when I finally retired, the shift from “work-life” to “retired-life” also brought some other emotions, including that of sadness and boredom. I’m quite sure though that some retirees like me felt a loss of identity when they are no longer defined by a job title, while some others are uncertain on how to fill their extra time.
For many of us retired people, retirement is the opportunity to do all the things we’ve always wanted to do in life, but never had the time to do. After working our entire life, though, I found out that it can be somewhat nerve-racking to have so much free time.
I’m writing this piece for new retirees who may have a hard time shifting to their new lifestyle and those who have retired for a few years now but are still not able to adjust to a life that has so much “me time.” I have here a few suggestions on finding purpose in life after retirement.
Find meaning in your day
Knowing the activities that make you happy is a huge step toward finding total fulfilment on a regular basis. Spend more time praying each day for your family and friends, for our leaders, for people who are sick or those who need your prayers, and for yourself. Spend more time to serve in the church. Enjoy helping others.
The important thing is to find something – or somethings – that get you thrilled about the day. If you focus on the things that truly make you happy, these ideas should come naturally.
Look to your faith
If you hold spiritual beliefs, no matter the faith, retirement is a great opportunity to practice those beliefs in a more focused and more profound manner. Finding meaning in your faith is not only a significant part of achieving overall wellness, people who practice faith are shown to experience more satisfaction and contentment in life.
If you have strong spiritual beliefs, use the time in retirement to get closer to your faith. That could mean participating in more evangelization work, attending more spiritual services, prayer meetings, conferences and assemblies, or even simply taking more time for quiet reflection.
Try new things
For many, retirement can be out-and-out boring. That obligation that took up 8 to 10 hours (sometimes more) a day is suddenly gone. What’s left? Well, perhaps just the routine, daily chores that need completed.
So, how do you break out of the pothole? Retired people must try new things as these can open you up to a world that you never knew existed. While achieving any current goals you might have should be a priority, you should also open yourself up to something you’ve never tried before. You must keep yourself on your toes. You might find a new passion or hobby that you never saw coming or you never thought you would be interested in. At the very least, each day will be different. The options are endless!
Take care of yourself
Your health is the most important thing in life. Finding enjoyment and purpose in retirement is wonderful, but it may not be possible if you don’t put your health and wellness first. Make sure you get back to the basics of certain things, like eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet. Drink lots of water, except for those with heart disease, etc. Maintain regular activity like physical exercise, walking, jogging, joining an actual fitness class or attending a gym. Simply staying active has its own set of health benefits.
Always remember – Retirement is not the end of the road; it is the beginning of the open highway!
