Are you retired? Or, are you thinking about retirement? Do you know people who seem to thrive in retirement while others seem to languish?
If you want to know what I’ve learned from seniors about what makes for a happy retirement, read on.
I’ve learned that the level of your happiness in retirement doesn’t have that much to do with your bank account. You do need enough money to cover your expenses. But, the happy retirees I know are happy because they choose to be. And, because they choose to do things that make them happy.
Habits of Happy Retirees
So, what are some of the habits that happy retirees employ? For one, they work at staying healthy. Across the board, the happy retirees that I know are active and very mindful of their health. Most walk regularly, and many play tennis or pickle ball. Of course, golf is high on the list and swimming is also a favorite activity among the happy retirees that I know. The bottom line is that all have discovered that even simple physical routines go a long way to keeping them healthy and happy.
I’ve also noticed that among my friends who are blossoming in retirement, there is a strong sense of social connection. Even during COVID, happy retirees found ways to connect. You might be surprised at how many retirees actually connect via Zoom or Google Hangouts. Of course, good old-fashioned card games, the movies, dining, and even dancing, are enjoyable ways to engage and to stay connected to peers. Happy retirees make social connections a priority and understand that having fun enhances their retirement years.
What’s another common theme among happy retirees? Volunteering! They’re always on the lookout for opportunities to give back and they have discovered that when you make use of your talents to help others, it is a win-win. Retirees gain meaning from volunteering and helping others brings them happiness.
There are many others things I’ve observed about those who seem to be most happy in retirement. They generally have grateful spirits and optimistic attitudes, along with a lifelong love of learning. If you want to be happy in retirement, having a growth mindset, a grateful heart, and an attitude of gratitude goes a long way.
I’ve discovered that the happiest of retirees have a strong sense of purpose and a zest for life. They know that time is finite and that life is precious. They also know that being a happy retiree is a choice. So, if you want to be a happy retiree, choose to do those things that will keep you healthy and that will make you, and those around you, happy.
