How to Adjust to Retirement

You've been looking forward to retiring for a lifetime and the time has come. You had dreams of travel and hobbies. Now you are home and wondering what to do with yourself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Imagination
• A Positive Attitude
• A Plan

1. Imagination:
   For the average person the reality of retirement is far from the dream.
   Retirement income turns out to be less than you thought, insurance has gone from full coverage to partial or no coverage, and expenses are the same. You had a dream to travel.
   
   Remember you are the dreamer, and you can modify your dream. If you decide to be happy, you will have a great time on shorter, less expensive trips. A week-end in a place you've always wanted to visit may provide you with memories beyond your imagination. You can make new friends and discover a new way of viewing other people.
2. A Positive Attitude
   You aren't getting older. You are getting better. You can live on less and still be happy. You find ways. Name brand stores are out. The thrift shop is in and you still have designer labels! You have time to go to the local Farmer's Market, so you save on vegetables and eggs. You discover there are some really nice things tucked in here and there at dollar stores and discount centers. Pretty soon you are adept at finding bargains and you love it. It's all in the attitude.
3. A Plan
   Some folks decide to sell their home, invest and live lighter. If you do not have difficulty making new friends, this can open a whole new world. If you need your circle of friends, and you find it difficult to make new ones, you might think twice about making a move from your community. There is a saying "Getting Old isn't for Sissies." Retirement isn't for sissies, either. The first few months are the hardest. If married, be patient with one another. Give each other time alone. Find hobbies you both enjoy. Don't blame your spouse if you are unhappy. Get out there and do something about it! As humans we still need to fill our time with something we feel is worthwhile. You might be a great volunteer! Write the book you've always dreamed of writing. Find your niche and then go for it.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, find out how much your income will be before you retire. You can plan better with actual figures.
• Try to get all the medical tests and dental repairs done before you retire.
• Before you set off on your first trip, make certain you have an emergency fund set aside just in case something unexpected comes up
• If you did not start planning for retirement in your twenties, then you may have a very small amount each month to live on.
• If possible, see a financial adviser. Scrimping now, may make life easier when you are really in a position to need more money.
• Look in your local newspaper for organizations or groups you might enjoy. If you are not a group person, check out volunteering. Volunteers are desperately needed in a lot of different areas.
• If you have worked or spent your life raising children and making a home, do not assume you do not have something to give. Everyone can find some way to make a difference.
• Depression is a real threat to the newly retired. That is why it is so important to go for your dreams even if you must modify them. Fulfilling a lifetime goal, or living a dream is possible right up until you take your last breath! Sometimes it takes a little research. For instance, a couple wanted to retire to a sunny climate. They did not think they could afford it. One of them got on the internet and found a perfect place in Florida which met their needs completely for a lot less money each month than they were currently paying. It didn't take long for them to sell their property and move. Research works!