Right-Sizing Retirement

It's not your daddy's retirement anymore. More and more "boomers" have structured a financial future so as to formally "retire" at healthy, earlier ages. The goal is to forego stress-inducing careers; move up to laid-back, more rewarding life style. For some, though, the initial months following a work exit can prove less than what was imagined. Avoiding this shell-shock and its aftermath can be achieved with the same hands-on action used for monetary goals.

R 'n R: Opting for rest and relaxation is an okay first choice for minimal time. Studies, however, show that minds forever need to be challenged on a daily basis in order to retain mental acuity plus lower the risk of time-related physical and mental disease. We're all privy to the prompts for crossword and sudoka puzzles, but other activities are included in this mix such as a part time job in an area you've always had interest in; adult education classes; dance lessons; etc. The list is enticing and endless. It supports the body/brain natural need to "grow" itself and gifts the immune system and physical appearance a youth-filled boost!

Seek Out a Social Scene. AARP research has found that those retirees who maintain daily, outside-the-home people ties overall experience a documented reduction in overall stress levels and boredom. They exhibit better physical health and social skills than counterparts who pull back from outside opportunities to interact. Stopping for a cup of coffee with old coworkers can increase motivation to take care of one's self because of the societal pressure to "look good". This is needed as retirement steps on because the human tendency to "slide" is real. Choose activities that are fun and require you to look your best. Again, habits are made throughout the first year of a new life style change so it's important to plant good ones!