Making Retirement Days Your Best Days

Posted on Tuesday January, 12 2010 | 1 Comment

We will hang it up one day.  We will quit our day job.  If you're lucky you'll leave on your terms. We want a retirement that is good.  We want to enjoy the fruits of our labors.  Below are some suggestions for anyone wanting their retirement days to be their best days.

  • Make good health a priority.  You need to be mobile to enjoy life.  The longer you stay mobile the more freedom you will have to get out and see the world.  Exercise and good nutrition are great choices.  A steady amount of each can ensure fun in retirement.
  • Good Healthcare Coverage.  Healthcare costs have been outpacing inflation for years.  You need solid health insurance to protect you from high healthcare costs. 
  • Emergency fund of 1 year's expenses.  You need access to cash for expected and unexpected expenses.  Having a good amount of cash that's easy to access is important.
  • Pursue your passions.  Maybe you have some hobbies that you were never able to make into a business.  Retirement can be a time to fully focus on your interests.  Investing in your passion might provide a part-time income for you if you find a ready market.  Pursuing your passions can be used to benefit others.  If you are handy with wood crafts, you might sell your wares to benefit a favorite local charity.
  • Invest in your community.  Find a community service group that aligns with your values and give your support. 
  • Spend time with family.  If your lucky enough to be near family, this is a great use of your time.  Spending time with your children and grandchildren can bring great joy to your life.
  • Work for free (volunteer).  Local schools and community service organizations are great places to spend time.
  • Start a blog.  A blog is an opportunity for you to share your passion and knowledge on the internet.  You can use expertise in an area and meet a need for many people.  The set up is inexpensive.  Having a blog is a great outlet for someone with a lot of time.  It can be especially rewarding for someone with physical limitations that might restrict their mobility.  All you need is a computer and internet access and you're on your way.

There's my list of activities that can make retirement days your best days.  Which one stands out for you?  What have I left out? Please comment.