A
lot of the more than 76 million baby boomers headed toward
retirement are losing sleep at night, not because they’re
worried about having enough money to retire, but because
they’re wondering what they want to do with the rest
of their lives. The average baby boomer can expect to live
83 years.
Today, people older than 50
aren’t worn out; they’re energized and ready
to conquer new worlds. According to the founders of Life
Options Institute, Joan and Steve Carter, this is the time
boomers want to make the journey from success to significance.
The Carters developed what
is essentially a Web site with connections to other commercial
Web sites which help to simplify some of the planning. There
are multiple options, including exercises on a variety of
topics, such as Dealing with My Spouse; Work Options; Redefining
Myself; Wellness; Relocation; and Volunteerism.
In-depth planning guides and
telephone sessions with professional coaches are available
(for a fee) for those wanting feedback and assistance. There
are also descriptions of many books designed to help you
find your purpose in life and chart your future.
If you or someone in your
family is beginning to think about retirement, here are
some tips from the Carters:
- Life’s about more
than money. Start thinking seriously about your retirement
before you expect to quit the work force.
- Make life plans. It is
important to plan for the nonfinancial aspect of retirement
by considering what will make you happy. Make a life plan
and tick off your experiences as you move ahead. Maybe
you’ll climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, or go dog sledding
in Alaska!
- Find a purpose. Find something
on an ongoing basis that provides joy and structure to
your life. It could be travel, hobbies or new career training.
- Keep sharp. Replace the
intellectual stimulation of work. Try learning a foreign
language or musical instrument, or taking ongoing educational
courses.
- Volunteer. Getting involved
in the community is a great way to give back, as well
as a wonderful way to interact and meet new people.
- Develop new friendships.
A measure of whether people have a successful retirement
is the strength of their social network, and that includes
family and friends.
- Spousal input. Retirement
often means a shared experience, so make time to share
your dreams with your spouse.
- Remain healthy. Eat well,
watch your weight and remain active.
- Financial stability. Consider
when you can afford to retire. You may wish to work part
time or move to a less expensive area.
- Try the Web site: www.WhatsNextInYourLife.com
to locate nonfinancial retirement planning tools.
Jean Cherni
is founder of Senior Living Solutions, a retirement advisory
service. Contact her at jeancherni@sbcglobal.net or
15 The Ponds, Branford 06405.
H. Pearce Company REALTORS®
is a full-service real estate company with more than 100
agents and branch offices in greater New Haven and the Shoreline.
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