Create a retirement you will love to live

Research shows that connectedness to others and resilience in responding to challenges have a greater correlation with happiness.

This means it’s vital to explore the nonfinancial components, like what your day- to-day life will look like, how you will achieve a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and who you will enjoy spending time with.

Apparently, the majority of people spend more time planning a four-week holiday than they do a 20 to 30-year retirement.

Some lucky people sail into retirement and never look back, but there is a risk that without a considered plan in place, retirement can end up being long, lonely and isolating.

If you find it difficult to plan for impending retirement, there are many resources to help, including books, workshops, online webinars and professionals who support people to transition from fulltime work to retirement.

■ How will you fill your days and weeks? A sense of purpose on what you want to "get" out of retirement is important. ■ Do you have an active social network? If not, forge one before D-Day.

■ If you have a partner, have you discussed your thoughts with them?

Loneliness, particularly if your partner is still working, and doesn’t plan to stop soon.

Isolation, particularly if you live rurally without family or friends nearby, exacerbated by poor internet connections.

Differing opinions than your partner on what you want out of life over the next 20 to 30 years. Articulate it and understand it, so you can plan and compromise.

Join clubs

Plan get-togethers with friends and family

Plan regular getaways, whether camping or a posh hotel

Take time to plan it’s

Sit down with your significant other and discuss what retirement will truly look like for the two of you; ensure you’re both in that picture. If you are retiring first, use that time wisely knowing that enjoyable time together is on the horizon.

If you’re feeling a sense of disconnection in retirement, you’re not alone.

The good news is, your story hasn’t been written yet. By understanding what is important to you, your fears, the opportunities retirement presents, and the legacy you want to leave, you can take focused action to ensure your next chapter is exciting and fulfilling.