New year… new adventure?

Five ideas to shake up 2022

January is a time of renewal. A chance to reflect on the changes, big or small, that you’d like to make in your life – whether that’s to get a little a bit fitter, start a new hobby or finally achieve a long held dream. Here’s five ways you can change your life for the better and make 2022 one to remember. 

1. Just do it

Resolve to make 2022 the year you step out of your comfort zone and dare to do something you’ve always dreamed of. It doesn’t have to be as extreme as jumping out of a plane, but if you’ve always wanted to, be honest about what’s stopping you. Can you get a friend to join you? Or commit to raising money for charity so you don’t back out? The road to fulfilling dreams often starts with small steps: a long list, a solid plan and then action. If you’ve always wanted to pen a novel, for instance, join a writing group, set aside 30 minutes to write every day and make sure to stick to it.

Get inspired: meet Angie and Edson who started acting careers in their 70s

2. Find an exercise you love 

Most of us resolve to get a bit fitter in the New Year, perhaps every New Year! But in reality, exercise shouldn’t be a chore. Instead of investing in a gym membership you’ll never use, experiment until you find an activity that you truly love. There are so many options you’ll soon find something to bring you joy, from gardening to golf or dancing, walking groups to wild swimming.

Get inspired: read this guide to yoga for the over 60s

3. Do good to feel good

Acts of kindness, like raising money for charity or volunteering, not only do good for other people and the causes that you care about, they’re also good for you. Numerous studies show that selfless acts make people feel more positive and taking part in voluntary and charity works can give you a sense of purpose as well as widen your social circle.

Get inspired: find volunteering opportunities with the McCarthy Stone Foundation

4. Eat more green(s) 

We all know that eating more fruit and vegetables is good for our health, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that adding more plant-based foods to your diet is better for the planet too. You may have been inspired by #Veganuary to try vegan food this month, but if veganism is a change too far, challenge yourself to make smaller tweaks that add more plant based foods to you diet – like meat-free Mondays. Also try to buy local and sustainable options where you can.

Get inspired: fuel up on five super healthy winter foods

5. New address…new you? 

Moving house is a huge step, but it’s a sure fire way to kick start an exciting new chapter in your life. If you’ve been living in a large family home long after your children have flown the nest, then letting go can be daunting. But in reality, a move to a lower maintenance property can be hugely liberating – physically, emotionally and financially. It can mean relocating to a new area too – perhaps to be closer to family or friends – or to the retirement location of your dreams. By the sea perhaps? Or in the heart of the countryside? Or to a purpose built retirement development where you can benefit from additional facilities, thoughtful services and a friendly community on your doorstep?

Get inspired: Read tips on downsizing

New adventures start here 

McCarthy Stone is the UK’s leading developer of retirement communities offering retirement properties to rent or for sale. Being a McCarthy Stone homeowner is becoming part of a community of people who embody a ‘life, well lived’. It’s about friendship, laughter and love. New adventures. And making the next chapter memorable…Find out more at our open days and events.

Special offer: Move for Free

You can save thousands on stamp duty, estate agent fees, legal fees and removals if you reserve a stunning new McCarthy Stone home on or before the 15th March*.

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