Many people find retirement pleasurable - particularly at the beginning.
For some, however, the novelty of unoccupied leisure quickly fades, and retirees are faced with the difficult and sometimes troubling adjustment of having large amounts of free time.But there are steps that a recent or soon-to-be retired person can take to make a successful transition into this new phase of life.
Initially, retirees should acknowledge the losses associated with retirement. Many gained a strong sense of purpose and identity from their work, and, in many instances, the workplace provided several rewarding relationships, sometimes helping them enjoy a busy social life.
Retirement requires a psychological adjustment and often leads to moodiness and anxiety in the first months after leaving the job. Retirees should recognize that these feelings are normal.
Retirement may be the time for some men and women to pursue hobbies, more education, and travel. Others may opt to become involved in community, political and religious organizations. For those seeking them, single retirees may try to become involved in new romantic relationships.
Retirees should be aware that some new pursuits may not pan out. If unsuccessful, they should attempt to experiment with others.
While sorting out how to spend one's time, a retiree should maintain relationships with family, friends and former colleagues. Also, they should seek out other retirees who have circumstances similar to their own.
In the early stages of retirement, staying busy is important. It could substitute for the social stimulation provided in the workplace.
Retirement is a most important change in lifestyle, and retirees should try to recall if they handled some other major changes in their lives successfully such as marriage, moving their families, military service and becoming a parent. Positive thinking could make retirement less traumatic.
Voluntarism is a great option for retirees who wish to use some of the knowledge and skills that they gained in the workplace. Increasingly, retirees are seeking volunteer positions that require considerable effort and from which they gain a great deal of satisfaction.
Also, many retirees are choosing to continue to work as consultants or in second careers. Retirement may be a time for some to become their own boss or try their hand at a new type of work.
Retirement is not a period of decline, and social attitudes about retirement are changing for the better.
Finally, retirees should seek sound financial advice to determine what they can and cannot afford to do during retirement, and have frank discussions with family members about money and expectations.
- Esther Chachkes
N.Y. University School of Medicine
(AP Special Features)