Planning for retirement ?
| Published: 28th February 2007 19:58 |
The Retirement Guide
While some of us happily count the days until we mark our official retirement, others can be a little wary to embrace the new change. After all, the structure of working life has anchored our week for all our adult lives. While some will ask ‘how will I fill all that time?', more might wonder if they can cope financially. If either or both questions flummox you, we've rustled up a mini guide to retirement to give you an idea of how you can make the most of all that new free time...
Relax
Of course, you'll now have plenty of time to take that much needed relaxing break from the 9 to 5 grind of the working week - so do your best to enjoy it. Before embarking on any new business or home project plans, take some time simply to rest, ponder and take pleasure in just being.
Concentrate on you
All those excuses about not having enough time to exercise and maintain a healthy eating regime fly out of the window in the face of retirement. Keep yourself fit and active and give your body plenty of good fuel (fruit, veg - the usual) to make sure you are in the best condition. Join a yoga class. Cycle. Go to your local pool for a mid-morning swim or simply go for brisk walks. Your body will thank you for it in the long-term.
Holiday
The best part of not being restricted by a job is surely the ability to spontaneously get away at the drop of a hat? Make the most of those super-last minute deals and travel the world. Best of all, stay for as little or as long as you like. Fancy a world-tour? A grown up gap year? A summer cruise? There will never be a better time for it.
Indulge
Your passions that is. Whether you've always been a keen golfer, a cook, arts enthusiast or simply want to try out new hobbies, give yourself a push and get stuck in. From learning a new language to learning a new skill: the world is your oyster and the choices are limitless. One of the most wonderful things about retirement is all that you can do now, and not just dream of.
Be Social
Having this much time will allow you to properly appreciate family and friends. If you want to spend more time with the grandkids, the children, old friends or are simply keen on expanding your social network - now is the time to do it.
Get Round To It
Yes. All those things you've been putting off until you've had the time - that DIY project, the new garden - they can all come back to the top of your to-do list. Having a project on the go is a great way to keep your brain - and your body - ticking over.
For more information visit http://www.lloydstsb.com/forthejourney
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