What to do when we retire
Watch this postAfter a 40 year career, I'm months away from retiring. I'm not sure what I'm going to do and it is daunting.
I've thought about mentoring, and volunteering but I'm really not sure.
Does anyone have any tips on what do - what do you do that brings the most satisfaction?
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I have just written my first blog and it’s all about retirement. It was very daunting when I first finished work as there was no structure to my day but gradually things have changed and I now can’t imagine going back to work.
See my blog at https://magspots2.wixsite.com/retirementglory
I would love to hear from people re other ideas for things to do during this special time
Not having the focal point of working I think is the biggest issue. Great at first as the pressure is off, but it’s easy to just drift after a while, which if it continues can lead to a lack of involvement / interaction with the world and a feeling of isolation.
So I would suggest you start whatever activity you are interested in before you retire and build on it later. This is particularly important if you follow up on your thoughts of mentoring. It will be easier to do this while you still have the contacts/network readily available.
During the course of this we became friends with two ladies who had quit the academic life to start a market garden. We help them from time to time in the garden and also with them, raise rare breed pigs and sheep. Retirement also gives us time to visit shows at one or other of the Aberdeen theatres and our National trust membership provides great places to visit. Oh, and we can have our holidays during term time!
Now I don't suggest that this is the life for everyone, but after careers in IT and education, we could never have imagined the path our lives would lead. Do not be afraid of retirement. Go for it, do things you've always wanted. Travel, learn new skills, take up a sport - and grow old disgracefully!
Personally I found adjusting to retirement took a while losing the structure of my day did make me a bit aimless to start with. I now volunteer for Visibilty and attend a social group weekly as well as becoming a Community Councilor that and the grandchildren keep me occupied ,with plenty of relaxation time to.
All the best for a happy retirement.
,
P
Join a community choir, they always want more male voices. In a choir you dont hav eto be able to sing as long as your voice blends in with the rest.
Join a dance class, they are always after more men. Once you can dance the ladies(or guys) will flock to you.
All these will keep you fitness ticking over nicely.
Too energetic?
Join a book club, ask at your library. See if there is a bridge club or other board game club anywhere near. Join Meet Up an online social group not about dating.
Join a walking group.
Try to learn something new, chinese, marquetry, flute, guitar, ukele, bonsai, jewellery making.
So many possibilities
Obviously depends what's on in your area - I actually moved 90 miles away as soon as I retired. I didn't know anybody but I researched there were plenty of clubs and activities to do, most of which are free.
You could look for your local U3A group. https://www.u3a.org.uk/find
Don't worry about the name 'University' it really isn't about studying there are plenty of activities if you want - table tennis, trips, learn a language - whatever you fancy. I suggest you search the various groups in your area and see what's on their programme!
For volunteering, I do some research for a charity - it keeps me mixing with younger people, keeps my brain working, whilst I contribute quite significantly by only doing 5 hours at week. Try this link and enter what your criteria is and it will show you what's available. I just happened to come across my organisation because they are based in the area. Good luck.
https://do-it.org/
If there are any walking groups (short walks !?) it's amazing who you meet and find out all sorts of stuff just by talking to people!