Enriching your retirement
If you’re not sure how to fill your days in retirement, you’re not alone. Thankfully, there’s a lot we can do to get on top of these feelings.
Life
Whether you’re about to retire or you’ve already made the transition, we’re here to help you get the most from this next phase of your life.
Your pathway to retirement
Moving into retirement is not always a seamless process, and hiccups can occur when you least expect them.
According to psychologist and author Humphrey Armstrong, people’s experiences can differ enormously.
Psychologist and author Humphrey Armstrong
“Many people report an initial honeymoon period when they shed the shackles of work rosters and celebrate the freedom of being able to do exactly what they want to do when they want to do it,” Humphrey says.
“However, there are others who experience a really rocky road, especially if they’ve been forced into retirement early.”
Humphrey’s advice is to look at retired friends and relatives around you and consider how they’re tracking through their retirement pathways. Compare these journeys with how you’d like to transition to retirement.
If you’re ready to start planning what could be the most rewarding phase of your life, visit the HESTA for Mercy Retirement Hub where you can access expert advice
Enjoy a happy, well-adjusted retirement
Everyone’s heard the saying “money can’t buy happiness”. You might be surprised to know this phrase applies to your retirement too.
Humphrey says that while having enough income and a place to call home is vitally important, there’s a lot more to staying happy in retirement than a big super balance.
Here are Humphrey’s tips for making the most of your best years, no matter your financial situation
1
Be willing to keep learning and adapting so you can turn setbacks into opportunities and solve new problems in creative ways.
2
Find a source of identity beyond your job so you know who you are when you finish working.
3
Create and nurture a strong and diverse social support network among your family and friends.
4
Stay active and physically fit. Exercise not only keeps your body healthy, but your brain as well.
5
Find purposeful activities like volunteering at your community garden or cooking for a social gathering.
6
Have someone to love, whether that’s a partner, your grandchildren, or a pet. Everyone needs someone special!
7
Plan something to look forward to, like catching up with a friend on the weekend or an overseas holiday.
getting ready for your next move?
Our Retirement Hub offers expert advice on your options, including help applying for the Age Pension.
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