The dictionary’s definition of retirement is to “withdraw from one’s position or occupation or from active working life.” A century ago retirement didn’t exist. It has come into being as our lifespans have become longer and the government provided a pension upon retiring. But retirement means different things to different people. Though some think of it as a time of relaxing and enjoying their free time, others think of it as a time to travel and see the world.
So what is retirement?
- Doing what you want. This is your last chance so go ahead and pull out all the stops. Want to climb mountains? Give it a go. You love music? Spend your time learning how to play as many instruments as you can. Forget the naysayers. This is your life and your time. Go ahead.
- You can’t make everyone happy. So many of us spend our time trying to please too many people. What makes you happy? Go ahead and do it. Do it today because today is what you have.
- Money really isn’t that important. The things that truly make you happy or content if you like, rarely have anything to do with money. They have to do with people or nature or books or art or some other abstract thing that has nothing to do with money.
- Time is all you have. You can’t save it or put it away for another day. What you have is what’s right in front of you. Use it wisely for what’s most important to you.
- Forget the bucket list. You can spend forever making a list of things you’d like to do but wouldn’t it be better to just get moving and do things?
Retirement can be many things but most important is what you would like it to be. To read more truths about retirement, click here.
