How to Stay Busy When You Retire

You worked hard all your life and finally you are thrilled to discover you can retire. The bliss of sleeping late, having no schedules and getting to wear comfortable clothes 24/7 is luring you into a life of.... boredom and depression. You can avoid that by following these tips.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. You must have a purpose to your life! Watching Judge Judy, Dr. Phil and Oprah every day doesn't qualify. Your purpose might by to serve God, your community, or your family. It might also include writing the Great American Novel or building an outdoor miniature town complete with a railroad - my granddaughter would love me if I did that! - or to finish a marathon. Whatever your purpose, it should be something that you are passionate about.

2. You must have activities that occupy you. Some of those activities will naturally be associated with your life's purpose but you should maintain other things that you are involved in. Even if you are unable to leave your home, you might volunteer to knit scarves for the homeless, prepare some if not all of your meals, or learn to paint. Give these activities respect and take them seriously, even if they are "just for fun."

3. You must maintain relationships with other people. Relationships are a two-way street. When someone offers the hand of friendship or companionship, you must accept it. If your children don't call you very often, instead of holding a grudge and waiting for their calls, call them first. When someone from your church or senior center asks if you need anything offer them a cup of coffee and a cookie and a chat. Longevity, and physical and emotional health are statistically related to relationships vs loneliness.
   
   If you don't get enough social time, consider joining a club or group. You might also get a pet. If you are mobile, dogs are a good choice because they keep you active, but if you are not mobile, a Cat might be a better idea. Adopt an older animal from the shelter so that you don't have to go through their childhood.

Tips & Warnings

• Attend a church, even if you aren't completely faithful to their beliefs. You will find friends and activities there.
• Grow a garden, even if it's only on a windowsill. One elderly lady I know grew a glorious huge tomato plant in a pot at her assisted living apartment.
• Bake cookies and give them away. You can be the "cookie lady" or "cookie man" and everyone will love you.
• Take walks. Walking is good exercise and gives you the opportunity to get the cobwebs out in the fresh air. It will change your perspective.
• Eat out. If all you can afford is a cup of coffee, drink it in a busy coffee shop. Sit at the counter. Eventually you'll make friends. I owned a cafe and I saw it happen many times.
• If there is a hobby you have always wanted to try, do it now. Don't wait. You may not ever excel at it but it can't hurt to try.
• Even if you are depressed and in pain or angry at the way your life has turned out, don't take it out on those around you. You will only chase them away.

[goodselfme]

on 2/5/2009 Excellent ideas for filling the retirement time with great, productive activities. 5*