Retiring is a major milestone for older adults. This is the point in time where they let go of their professional responsibilities and focus more on themselves and enriching their lives further. By the third quarter of 2021, reports found that 50.3% of adults over the age of 55 have left the workforce. This is higher than the 48.1% who retired during the same period in 2019.
While it is an achievement to be able to finish your professional life, some retirees may feel unfulfilled. This can lead to a few psychological effects like depression and anxiety. Though this isn’t always the case, it is still important to live life to the fullest at this time. After working hard for many years, it’s crucial that you get to experience the things that make you happy. So, here are a few ways you can live your best life during this period of time:
Having new experiences
When you were working, more often than not, you were confined to a routine that prioritized your job or business. Now that you are no longer bound by professional responsibilities, it is time to try your hand at different life experiences.
Our past article on ‘Eco Village Retirement Living’ highlights different communes retirees can reside in to go back to rekindle their appreciation and connection with nature, as they once may have had in their youth. Here they can learn different skills like practicing holistic wellness, midwifery, and even ecology. There are communes all over the country (and the world) where like-minded adults can interact with each other and be at one with the environment. If you want to try something more daring, you can also travel to places that have always been on your bucket list. This is the best time to cross things off your to-do list of life experiences, as you have the time and freedom to do so.
Finding your calling
For many older adults who lived a traditional life, they may have gone into an industry that they weren’t passionate about. If this is the case for you, your retirement period is a good time to find a hobby or activity that you are truly passionate about.
A list of the best part-time jobs for retirees by AskMoney, states a side hustle is good because it will allow you to earn some extra income without having to work the whole typical 9-5 routine. This includes becoming a consultant, teaching, and even dog walking. They also mention that older adults can create crafts that they can then sell online. If you are into crafts, this may be an enjoyable hobby you can look into and profit off of. Trying your hand at different part-time jobs will help you find the calling you may have missed before and have a job that you are truly passionate about.
Staying on top of your health
Lastly, retirees should always look out for their health. While it is important to stay physically fit throughout your life, the older people get, the more likely they are to develop different diseases and illnesses. Staying healthy means having the energy and capability to engage in activities that will help you live a more purposeful life.
Forbes explains that older adults, especially those aged over 65, should have at least two and a half to five hours of physical activity every week. Walking, cycling, and dancing are a few cardio exercises that are low impact but very effective. Even simply repeatedly sitting and standing can make for an efficient workout. Just be sure that before you perform any exercise, you are stretching properly. This will help lessen the risk of accidents happening while you are working out.
Retirement is all about living life to the fullest so you won’t have any regrets. These are just a few of the ways you can live with purpose after leaving the workforce.