Experience life without the interference of our accumulation of opinions and ideas. Being completely involved in whatever we are doing. Every moment is new. Living in the here and now.
Retirement vs. Working
Hopefully, if you are reading this article you also have the added benefit of actually having a choice between the two. It's so sad to read about the people that have not planned for their retirement, or due to circumstances beyond their control, their retirement plan is no more.
Some people are not cut out for retirement and will always have to keep a full time or possible part time job at all times. They like the routine, they love their job, their job has always been a big priority in their life, whatever the reasons, they are happier working. As long as you continue to be capable of doing the job well and your employer is cool with it, work until you feel the time is right. If your employer forces you out you may have to evaluate your strengths before pursuing a new job.
If you aren't sure how you will handle it, try cutting back on your hours prior to full blown retirement. If it's possible, start there and gradually cut back more and more.
If you haven't made time for a hobby while you were younger, or you never had the time for
a hobby - and it would be a great advantage to find
one a few years before your retirement. Something must have peaked your interest, or a sport you
always meant to try. I've heard of a rash of men reaching retirement age taking motorcycle riding
lessons and for the first time in their live, making the big purchase and taking up riding.
Want to change careers? Go back to school. Learn a new trade. Take computer classes. If you are going to attempt re-entering the workforce without experience in the field, the more education the better. Or combine a new trade with starting up your own business. That way you will not have to deal with the issue of breaking into the workforce and competing with a younger generation of graduates.
Even if you prefer retirement, going back to school or taking a college course here and there is a great idea. It will keep the mind sharp, get you out on to the campus atmosphere, or at least a class setting, mingling with other humans and just getting out of the house. You'll have a schedule which will give you some structure which is a good thing.