Be prepared - the transition can be bumpy
Preparing to thrive in retirement will help you answer those common questions of ‘when’, ‘where’ and ‘what to do’ in this exciting phase of your life.
‘The honeymoon period’ is usually the first twelve months of retirement when long held desires such as taking time to recharge, travel, renovate or relocate are achieved.
Without a future plan, a difficult period of disillusionment and uncertainty about what’s next can follow.
There can be bumps on the journey in terms of balancing activities, issues of self-identify, managing discouragement and setbacks. Especially if retirement was unplanned due to a redundancy or ill health. It can lead to confusion, despondency and uncertainty about the future.
Settling into retirement can require creating a balance between: income requirements, time with family, pursuing hobbies, taking on the role of caregiver, volunteering or more likely a combination of roles.
In a partnership, research highlights, that it is rare for both people to be considering retirement at the same time. This can lead to conflict, as one wishes or needs to keep working, and the other takes on home duties or wants to travel etc. Acknowledging these issues and creating a plan is important.