Most people who look forward to retirement can’t wait for the day when they exit the hustle and bustle of business and have time to themselves.

But in essence, it’s often not the case. Retirees find that suddenly they have so much to do because the new life offers them time to do all the things they couldn’t do while they were working. Not that this is a bad thing, because it’s better than sitting around being bored.

However, the secret to an enjoyable stress-free retirement, according to those who have been n that position, is to be well organized.

As retirement can still offer you 20 or more years more to enjoy, there is no doubt that you would want them to be the best they could be.

Being organized is about planning and saying “no” and “yes” when it suits you. In this way, you can have time to yourself without being told what to do by others, particularly your family.

What is that pattern of retired life that works the best? Let’s hear from some experienced, happy retirees:

Having Time for Yourself

Many organized retirees keep a calendar of events to record their regular “dates” for bowls, golf, bridge, walking events, and so on. They also must keep a finger on their cash flows, as they are reliant on their retirement income. Maintaining health in retirement is a huge issue, and it’s often this and money that determines how much you can do when you retire.

Looking at some of these issues, how do we best manage our retirement to maximize its enjoyment?

Choose what you commit to

As social beings people naturally want to socialize. In the beginning, you will find yourself with a lot of time on your hands, and others will want to bring you into their lives. Be aware that this can lead to being taken for granted. Like being the driver for your grandchildren or them having frequent sleepovers where they run you ragged. Not that this is a bad thing, because after all, you adore them.

By having a routine and communicating it to the family everybody will know when you are available, and they will fit into your routine. In this way, you oversee your time. And oh, don’t be afraid to say “no” because it is your retirement that you have worked so hard for.

Keep Mind and Body Healthy

As we get older our bodies start aging naturally. With this comes a general slowing down and aches and pains begin in unexpected places. Knowing this, what can you do about it? Well, the fact is that there are lots of activities that can help your body and mind stay in shape and these can counteract your aging quite successfully. Let’s see what they are:

Exercise

Regular exercise does wonders for the mind and body. Research shows that exercise is particularly important as we age as it serves to keep our blood circulation in good shape. By thinking about it, varying the type of exercise you do you can easily get into a regular if not well-disciplined routine. Like walking the dog or with others, a yoga class or even joining a gym suited for oldies.

Travel

Not only does travel broaden the mind, but it is also one of those exciting activities that are easy to do as a retiree. Like seeing family overseas, going on an adventure, or even exploring your local sights. Either way, part of the fun is the planning, and many regular travelers always have a trip arranged to look forward to.

Find a new Interest

Discovering something new, be it a new hobby, love interest, or sport, don’t believe you are too old to do so. Who knows what’s out there waiting for you? You now have the time to dream and explore. Put yourself out there: there could be something fun waiting for you.

Blogging or writing a book

There is no age limit when it comes to writing. Now that you have accumulated all those memories and experiences you are sure to have a lot of interesting things to say that people will want to read about. It could be a book or simply a blog. Try it you never know how good you are until you do it. Get it down, out of your head, and let others enjoy what you have to say!

Get a pet

This may be a big commitment, but after all a pet is a companion and you may need a furry friend in your life. We don’t suggest a parrot as it may outlive you, and after all, it talks back at you, and at this stage of your life, you don’t need that!

Find a Supplementary Income Stream

Always useful is a little extra cash coming in while in retirement. And it’s easier than you may think.

Rent out a room

Your property can make you some extra cash. By de-cluttering and clearing some unused space like an annex to the house, store things you are not using in self-storage, and rent the space out. As there is a ready market for rental accommodation, regular income can be assured without much effort on your behalf.

Consulting or writing

Use your inherent experience and rich knowledge gained over the years. Turn this into money though offering your services doing consulting work, reconnecting with old colleagues, and working only when and if you feel like it. Alternately find an online platform that offers assignment work related to your field of expertise and do this from the comfort of your home. It will keep your brain sharp and you will enjoy it.

We have listened to the advice of happy retirees. Many also stay in an environment that inspiring and uncluttered and they have made space for themselves by downsizing or simply de-cluttering their lives. If you are one of those who would like to do the same, Stop & Store has a range of storage units ranging from 12sq feet to 200 sq feet for you to keep unused items to make space for yourself.

Call us at Stop & Store Fareham on 01329 556174

Or visit us at Thackeray Mall, Unit C (First Floor) 26a, Fareham PO16 0PQ