Tips to a happy retirement
We have all the information you need to make the most out of your newly-found time.
Make sure you have your finances in order
You can organize your money to figure out how much you will need to survive. It will be easier to adjust by gradually reducing your spending as you get closer to retirement. Find out if you are eligible for any pensions that may be lost, and then claim your state pension.
Retire slowly
You can make your transition smoother by retiring in stages. You’ll find it easier to accept the idea of no work and to fill your time with other activities by gradually reducing your workload over many years. Ask your employer to reduce your work hours.
Be prepared for both ups and downs
Sometimes you may feel lonely or lost. This is normal. Accept that you may be temporarily affected by illness or changes in your relationships and put your backup plan into action. Be positive and open to sharing your concerns.
You can use your time to keep challenging yourself mentally. This could be learning a language, an instrument or even a qualification.
Establish a routine
It may feel more natural to get up, eat and go to bed around the same time each day. Regular activities like exercise, volunteer work, and hobbies are good ideas. You will find it interesting and gives you a purpose.
Exercise your mind
Studies by the government have shown that people can learn in their later years to help them stay independent. So use your time to keep yourself challenged mentally, no matter if you’re learning a language, an instrument, or a skill.
Stay physically active
We should aim to exercise at least 150 minutes per week. If you haven’t done this before, it’s a good idea to start. You can sign up for a charity event that will give you a goal.
Get social support
Many people feel that work is a major part of their social lives. It’s not uncommon to feel a little lost once you retire. Join clubs and groups to fill the gaps.
Learn more about the physical and social benefits of walking clubs.
Be at peace, and then move on
Do not spend your retirement living in the past. Accept the fact that you have done everything possible in your job, and then focus on your next challenge. There are still many things to do.
Get a health check
Preventing is better than treating, so now is the best time to schedule your midlife MOT. The NHS Health Check program aims to prevent heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It also helps with kidney disease and certain types of dementia.
Anyone between 40 and 74 who is not yet diagnosed with any of these conditions, or has certain risk factors will be invited every five years for a check-up to determine their risk. They will also be offered support and advice to reduce or manage this risk.
You can ask your GP to check if you are in this group but have not had a check within the last five years.
Keep in touch with your work friends
You don’t have to go away from the friends and colleagues you made at work just because you are retiring. You can make plans for regular catch-ups. You might also want to make arrangements for regular catch-ups with friends you haven’t seen in a while.
Party planning is something you love. Get everyone together, and plan the perfect garden, dinner party, anniversary celebration, or any other special occasion. Our “Give in Celebration Fund” fund allows you to raise funds simultaneously for lifesaving work.
Pamper yourself
You deserve some “me time” after decades of hard work. You can schedule some time to indulge in a relaxing city break, a trip to the spa, or small pleasures like eating out or going to see a movie.
Practice mindfulness
As a way to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, mindfulness has grown in popularity over the past decade.
Exercise and fresh air are great ways to boost your mood and keep you healthy.
A 2009 study by Goethe University in Germany has shown that meditation can strengthen the hippocampus (the brain area that is responsible for memory) and slow down the decline of brain regions that are responsible for maintaining attention.
Although there are no guidelines on how often meditation should be done for optimal results, a few studies suggest that even 10 to 20 minutes per day of mindfulness can be helpful – if you stick with it.
Give back to your community
Have you ever thought about volunteering? You might enjoy volunteering with your local animal rescue center, youth club, or elderly support group.
Many charities would appreciate your help, including the BHF. You can help us in our stores, at an electrical or furniture store, and with fundraising, as well as at many other types of events.
Be one with the natural world
Exercise and fresh air are great for your mood and can help you maintain your well-being. You can incorporate a walk through the woods, or to a nearby park into your daily life. This is a great way to get a minimum of 150 minutes of exercise per week.
Travel more
Have you ever wished to go on an all-around cruise around the world, a wine-tasting tour through Italy, or a camping trip in the Welsh valleys? You can now make your long-held dreams a reality depending on your budget and health.
Mini breaks or days out to new places may be an option if longer trips are not possible.
Adopt a pet
Do you have a dog or cat that is in desperate need of a home? Research shows that furry friends can have a positive impact on our health and well-being.
Allen R. McConnell, professor of psychology at Miami University and pet researcher, says that people who have pets are happier, more trusting, less lonely, and generally feel more secure than those without pets. They also see the doctor less often for minor issues.
Prof McConnell suggests that one reason could be because your pet provides you with a sense of belonging and meaning. You feel more in control of your own life.
For more information about rehoming pets, please visit your local animal rescue center, the RSPCA, or Dogs Trust. The Cinnamon Trust is open to you if you are interested in volunteering to foster or walk an elderly dog.
