Are you looking forward to the golden years?
Retirement is not about redundancy, it is about a second chance to live your life on your terms.
With all your responsibilities out of the door, you can finally hang up your boots and live the life of your dreams. Maybe buy that lake house, take a vacation to Europe, or do some social work that you always desired but never did find the time!
Sounds great, doesn’t it?
As you can see, fulfilling retirement is more than just being financially secure. Here are 10 tips to ensure a happy retirement for yourself:
Have a Retirement Income Plan
According to experts, it is essential to estimate your retirement income needs than worry about the investments you need during your retirement. We suggest that you use an online retirement calculator to figure out how much money you would need.
This will help you ensure a minimum guaranteed retirement income through tailored financial plans and annuity so that you can maintain the lifestyle you are used to. Speaking to a financial adviser could also help.
Control Your Expenditure
We are sure that you have saved through the years to build a comfortable retirement nest that includes stocks as well as fixed income schemes. However, a comfortable income post retirement does not mean that you can splurge it all away.
Think of your retirement as an extended vacation. The money that you have accumulated in your working years must fund your lifestyle for the next 20-30 years. Therefore, spend prudently, and if possible, work with a financial adviser to keep your money intact throughout your golden years.
You Still Need That Emergency Fund
Talking of finances, you still need an emergency fund equivalent to at least three months’ income to tide you over any unexpected expenditure or contingency. A high interest-rate savings account could be an excellent place to stash your emergency fund.
Get Your Insurances in Order
We cannot stress enough on the importance of term, as well as medical insurances. In case you are 50+ and do not have medical insurance in your portfolio already, apply for a Mediclaim policy as soon as possible to cover any future medical expenses. Most of these policies will also offer a cover for existing diseases after two years of taking out the insurance.
Consider a Part-Time Job
If possible, put the knowledge and experience you have gained over the years to good use by taking up a part-time job that will keep you mentally fit and also supplement your income.
It could be a creative job at an ad agency down the block or an online writing job, pick what suits you best to keep your mental faculties sharp.
Don’t Stop Learning
If you don’t want to take up a job, pursue your hobbies or learn some new skills that you always wanted to. Be it painting, macramé, or even playing a musical instrument, you have all the time to devote to your hobby and become a pro!
Stay Active
The better your health, the more likely are you to enjoy your retirement. Focus on nutrition and exercise regularly to maintain your posture, balance, and confidence. Check with your doctor if you can start with some Yoga or simply take long and brisk walks in the park, but do wear proper shoes and gear to avoid any injuries.
Take Care of Your Health
You could afford to ignore your health in the early years but not anymore. With age, several health issues can crop up. Therefore, it is vital to take care of your physical and mental health to enjoy a happy and dignified retirement.
Be Social
Not having a social life is terrible for your health. According to studies, low social interaction can lead to cognitive decline and heart disease. So, maintain an active social circle, spend more time with your children and grandchildren, or join a hobby class to interact with people from various age groups to develop healthy social ties.
Make a Bucket-List
There were many things you wanted to accomplish as a youngster but didn’t find the time or funds to get around to doing so. Now is the right time to list everything you wanted to do and start ticking them off one by one.
A positive attitude towards ageing is an essential factor in enjoying your retirement thoroughly. In short, use your golden years to refocus on your health, hobbies and things that you enjoy doing to live happy and satisfied.