How to have a happy retirement

It goes without saying that work is often very stressful and many of us dream of the day we can finally put our feet up.

The early days of retirement are often joyous but can be followed by a crash. Here’s our top tips to stay happy and make the most of it.

Try something new

This may be as a specialist in the area you have already worked in, or exploiting a hobby you might have previously enjoyed in your time off.

If you choose the work you do wisely, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy it more than you did before you reached retirement age. When you’re truly fulfilled by what you do, money can seem like an added bonus.

Volunteer

It’s been proven that those who volunteer have a stronger sense of purpose, higher self-esteem, and are happier and healthier than those who do not.

Volunteering helps people give back to their community. Likewise, helping with family can provide a similar kind of reward, as grandparents often step in to make it easier for their children to maintain a working life.

Find a hobby

Finding something meaningful to do in retirement doesn’t have to involve work. There are plenty of people who find meaning, friendship and structure in leisure activities.

If you haven’t had many interests outside of work, it can be hard to find something new to do and it may take a few attempts before you get it right.

Take your time and think about the skills you possess that can be put to good use and give you fulfilment.

Get your ducks in a row

There’s certain life admin that you may have the time to consider now that you’re no longer working. This might include writing a will and taking out Over 50 Life Insurance.

Whatever you choose to do, there’s no right or wrong answer. Just do what is best for you.

The good news is that while finding the right approach may seem like a mammoth task, plenty of people have managed it. For them, retirement is the happiest time of their life.