Myths About Retirement

When you retire you might have made some assumptions about life as a retired person. Here are some myths about retirement:
You'll be bored without the routine of work
That depends  to some extent on whether, during your working years, you developed interests apart from your work. If so you will have plenty to keep yourself busy and occupied. There are classes to attend, clubs to join and people to meet all of which will share your hobbies or interests.
On the other hand if you liked your work so much and didn't develop other interests then there will be opportunities, if you look for them to be a mentor to others win the same occupation. there may be a chance to do the same work but on as and when basis, perhaps filling in when someone is on holiday or unwell. This gives you the chance to cut down your commitments gradually and not have the strict obligation of having to do the work day in and day out every day.
You'll be unable to keep healthy
You may have made an assumption that you would be a 'couch potato' when you retire: someone who sits around all day watching television, eating and never exercising. Of course if this is what you actually end up doing then you will find your health deteriorates. However after retirement you are likely to have many years ahead of you which you hope to be in good or excellent health. You can help this along by eating healthy meals, taking regular exercise such as walking for about thirty minutes each day, stopping smoking and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink.
You can't learn anything new
Have the mindset of the benefits of life-long learning and make up your mind to learn something you didn't know anything about or to re-visit something you were interested in many years before. Most people, when they retire  keep their brain active and exercised by doing just that. Don't let the age you are put you off new learning experiences.
You'll have time to do lots
You may find that once you are retired some things which you could fit into a day each take longer to complete and you don't get as much done as you plan. So think carefully about what you want to do and how much time you waste watching television, for instance.
You have plenty of time but it's not unlimited!



Susan Kersley is a retired doctor who became a life coach. She encourages you to have a life after work and live your dreams. http://getreadyforretirement.co.uk, http://lifeaftermedicine.co.uk