As a child we have lots of dreams. To become a sports star, a singer, actor, a famous musician, a dancer, or any other unlikely but exciting pursuit.
As we get older our dreams tend to be less and less. Usually through a combination of adults telling us it can’t be done or to focus on something more practical. And/or from a series of failures that put us off. Or maybe a personal decision to focus on something more realistic. Something to help pay the bills.
Then for many of us we also get married and have kids. So we tend to gravitate towards reliable jobs, and we try to be as available as we can for the family. Being a reliable parent and partner.
We give up on a lot of our own personal desires and wants for the sake of others. I am not knocking this. I am in the stage myself. It is what is required for many. My family relies on me and my stability. And I the same for my partner. We quite simply don’t have the time (or the energy!) for a lot of self interests.
The challenge is when it comes to retire. You have spent decades as this dependable worker and/or family man or woman, and then all of a sudden you don’t need so many people depending on you. Your kids are likely out of the house. You are no longer reliant on high paying work. Things that were such a huge part of your life are now gone.
A big hole is left.
But how do we fill that hole when we have spent the last few decades being a bit robotic? Work, kids sport, family, sleep, repeat.
It is time to dream again. Your dreams may have changed from when you were a kid, but you still can have dreams.
It’s going to be a real struggle for many. It’s hard to break years of routine.
One way is just trying a bunch of different things and see what sticks. You may find an interest in something you never expected. Think leftfield if you like. By ruling things out you are one step closer to finding something you can get onboard with.
Part time work prior to retirement can be a great option. It means you don’t have so much free time that you are lost, but still enough to explore some different things. Having the income still coming in can also be helpful when trying things that may cost money. Some retirees are reluctant to spend money and it would be a shame if you didn’t explore something that you may have otherwise enjoyed just because of money. Finally, part time work helps when you want to give something up. If you had more time available, you may be more inclined to stick with something because you have nothing else to do with your time. By keeping up some work hours, you are not at such a loss if you drop any pursuits.
I am a big fan of easing into retirement with part time work if you can. The transition from full time work to full time leisure is not to be underestimated. The shock can be softened with a gradual reduction in work hours and a gradual increase in leisure hours. To me, this is a more effective way into retirement. By the time you fully retire, you are ready to hit the ground running so to speak.
If you need help with your personal retirement planning, then get in touch today.
The information contained on this site is the opinion of the individual author(s) based on their personal opinions, observation, research, and years of experience. The information offered by this website is general education only and is not meant to be taken as individualised financial advice, legal advice, tax advice, or any other kind of advice. You can read more of my disclaimer here