OMG, what have I done? If that’s your response the day, week or month after you retire, don’t be alarmed. You’re probably not the only one feeling that way.
It could be you’re just experiencing some momentary regret or maybe some guilt about your decision.
Is guilt the road less travelled? Heck, no! It’s the road MOST travelled for some retirees. Could be you’re feeling like the party is over and….now what?
Maybe you’re wondering how you’re going to fill all this extra time. Relax, it’s just the Reality Police smacking you upside the head.
Need I remind you — YOU’RE FREE NOW! That ought to give you a modicum of relief. If it doesn’t, give your head a shake. You’d better adjust to the reality that YOU are the boss of you now.
There may be people who ask why you’re retiring so young. Remember, there’s no need to justify your decision to anyone. Presumably you worked hard, paid your dues and showed up ready to work every day. You didn’t steal this retirement from anyone; you earned it.
Perhaps you’re feeling guilty that some of your retired friends have to work part-time to make ends meet. Or some may need to work to 65. It’s unfortunate, but it’s their life, their choice.
Not your circus, not your monkeys. If you can retire comfortably at 60, you’ve been doing something right all these years. So pat yourself on the back.
On the other hand, if you haven’t done any pre-retirement preparations, and you have no plans or hobbies to fill your time, then go ahead and feel free to freak out. You have the right. But do it quickly then get on with life.
The long and short of it is this: don’t waste time on things you can’t change. Move forward, do your best, and accept your decisions. It’s okay to look back, but don’t stare.
My advice to new retirees is this: Learn how to find joy in simple things like walking in nature, sharing a meal with a friend, playing with your pet or reading a good book.
Nowhere is it written that you have to be productive every second of your retirement. It’s okay to just relax.
Then, once the newly retired dust has settled, think about how you want to spend the rest of your life. Consider satisfying options like exploring your spirituality and volunteering.
Retirement is like those digger games at the PNE, where you drop in your toonie and the digger picks up your gift and delivers it down the chute. Every day of retirement is a gift. Just learn how to appreciate it. Graciously.
