5 tips for a happy retirement
When planning for retirement, many boomers are concerned about the financial aspects, but don’t focus on preparing to live the lifestyle they want. In other words, deciding what they want to do with the rest of their lives.
Financial issues aside, there is a lot that retirees can do to make retirement a great time of life. Here are a few tips to help you retire happy and enjoy to the fullest the life you’ve earned:
1. Make meaningful plans.
It’s important to consider what will make you happy. Maybe you’ll take up a hobby you’ve always wanted to but never had the time for, like painting or writing. Or perhaps you’ll set travel goals, like a cross-canada RV tour or a cruise. Make meaningful life plans and tick off your experiences as you move ahead in fulfilling your dreams.
2. Increase your financial stability.
If you can’t afford to retire yet, what about partial retirement? Or do you have the opportunity to downsize? Many Canadians are unlocking the money from their large and now hard-to-maintain homes by purchasing more affordable homes and freeing up money for what matters most during the retirement years.
3. Develop new friendships.
Studies say that those who have strong social networks are 30 per cent happier with their lives than those without them. Many land-lease communities, like Parkbridge Communities, offer an instant social network by virtue of walkable communities with residentrun social clubs and activities. It’s like loneliness insurance.
4. Stay healthy and active.
When you feel good, it’s easier to stay positive and be open to new experiences. Be sure to eat well, get a good night’s sleep and stay physically active. Many retirees make a commitment to stay active by residing in land-lease communities that have built-in fitness facilities, pools, tennis courts, walking and biking paths and golf courses – amenities that help you easily lead an active and healthy lifestyle.
Getting involved in your community and helping others is a great way to give back. It is also a wonderful opportunity to make new friends. Check out your local community for volunteer groups or organizations that fundraise for local charities, making volunteering impactful and easy.
(www.newscanada.com)
5. Volunteer.