Much of your life will change when you retire, so it’s a good idea to plan your life as a pensioner before you stop working. Today’s seniors are generally fitter both mentally and physically than previous generations. Many seniors have life experience, knowledge and initiative, which are important and advantageous to both you and society if shared with others.
Take care of your social network
Your job automatically gives you contact with colleagues, so it’s a good idea to consciously replace it. Social activity is extremely important for a good and long life. Seniors with an active social life often have a better quality of life. Therefore, it’s important to stay in touch with everyone ranging from family, friends and former colleagues to extending your network by participating in activities, associations or charity work.
Work as long as you can
If you both want to and have the capacity to work, it’s often wise to continue working. In addition to having a network and social community, it enables you to take responsibility and to feel the value of contributing to society. You can read about how to plan for your pension on Nav’s website. It’s worthwhile to check this out early.
If you’ve already retired with a pension, volunteerism can replace much of what you have acquired in terms of expertise and social contact during your working life. Working as a volunteer is a good way to be involved with a community, get new friends, learn new things and contribute to something meaningful.
Have a structured day
Many people miss their daily routine more than they expected. Therefore, it’s a good idea to plan a regular routine for getting up, mealtimes and other daily chores. In addition, it’s wise to create a weekly plan including everything from, for example, social gatherings and cultural activities to exercise, excursions and brain exercises. Remember to differentiate between weekdays and weekends even though you’ve stopped working. With a structured day, it will be easier to develop good habits which can contribute to better health and happiness as a pensioner.
Take care of yourself. Some people feel a loss of identity when they no longer have the job role that was important to them for many years. Talk to someone if you feel emptiness or anxious.
You’re allowed to change your mind
You can consider the first year as a pensioner as a ‘trial year’ and be open to changing your life plan as a senior as you gain experience in relation to what is important and right for you. The initial plan is rarely the final plan. Be open to doing voluntary work, getting a part-time job or acquiring completely new interests along the way. Many industries need labour. Check to see if you can work according to the retirement conditions.