“Often when you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” Mr. Rogers might have been a children’s TV show host, but his wisdom tends to apply to every age. For example, this quote is a great piece of encouragement for anyone who’s working on finding purpose in retirement.
Finding Purpose in Retirement
Does the idea of retirement make you anxious? Sure, lots of us daydream about our golden years. Who wouldn’t want to spend their time doing exactly as they please, enjoying the rest they’ve earned after a lifetime of hard work? It’s definitely time to kick off your shoes and start taking it easy.
However, while daydreams of retirement can feel luxurious while you’re still stuck in the 9-to-5 world, the reality of retirement can be a wake-up call. Believe it or not, your likelihood of experiencing depression after retirement is actually higher than your likelihood of experiencing it during your working years. But why would that be? Your brain needs leisure, but it also needs a lot of other things to stay happy, such as novelty and challenges. Working life also provides structure and predictability that our brains tend to appreciate. When all of those things disappear, it can leave a retiree in a tough spot.
However, there’s good news too. Retirees who make a plan for how they’ll spend their retirement are typically the ones who are able to enjoy it the most. The secret is finding purpose in retirement. So, how do you do that?
Keep Your Body and Mind Healthy
You might be surprised that physical health is an important part of finding purpose in retirement. It’s important to remember that physical health can have a huge influence on mental health, and vice-versa. The happiest retirees are the ones who are intentional about their health. Exercise and a good diet can help you avoid all kinds of senior health conditions, and they can also provide you with the routine and discipline you need to make the most out of retirement. You don’t need to run a marathon tomorrow, but any steps you take to improve your health and well-being will keep you on the road to finding meaning in your retirement.
Let’s Get Social
One of the best parts of retirement is that it gives us the time and space we need to reconnect with people we love. Did you ever bemoan how hard it was to keep up with the people you loved while you were working every day? If so, you might find great meaning in focusing on social connections with your newfound free time. Call up old friends, visit family members, or find some group activities for retirees to connect with people just like you.
Give Back to Your Community
Did you know that nearly a third of all American retirees volunteer in their community on a regular basis? If you have time off during working hours, nonprofits and other community organizations can use your help. Seniors who volunteer and contribute regularly to their favorite causes have higher self-esteem and stronger senses of purpose than those that don’t. If you’re looking for something to do, why not give your time to someone who needs it? Whether childhood hunger is a cause close to your heart, or spending every day with cuddly animals up for adoption sounds like a dream come true, there’s a great non-profit organization in your community that would love to connect with you.
Follow a Dream
One of the greatest gifts of retirement is the gift of time. This is finally your chance to explore the things you haven’t had the space or ability to explore during your working years. Have you always wanted to flex your creative side? Would you like to pick up a new hobby, or learn a new language? Now is the time to say “yes” to everything your life could be!
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Finding purpose in retirement is how you can make your golden years the gift they should be. Make a list of things you’ve always wanted to do, and let it be your guide. How many could you do in a year? Which ones can you start tomorrow?
Retirement is a time for you. A vibrant community like Waterstone on Augusta is the perfect place to enjoy it. Located in gorgeous Greenville, South Carolina, this premier assisted living and memory care community offers a vibrant, enriching lifestyle for seniors with independent living in a thriving neighborhood. To learn more, contact us today. To learn more about our amenities and to view our lovely community, please schedule a tour online or call us today at 864-605-7236.